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T20 World Cup: Ahead of the Champions Trophy opener on Wednesday, Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan emphasized the need for greater awareness and professionalism in the national team’s approach to high-stakes tournaments. As Pakistan prepare to face New Zealand in the third match this month following their twin defeats in the Tri-series, Rizwan acknowledged the challenges that have plagued Pakistan’s performances in ICC events in recent years and expressed confidence in his squad’s potential.

Speaking at a press conference at Karachi’s National Stadium, Rizwan addressed Pakistan’s fluctuating results in global tournaments. Since winning the Champions Trophy in 2017, Pakistan have reached the T20 World Cup semifinal in 2021 and the final in 2022 but have otherwise struggled in ICC events, often exiting in the group stages. "On a personal level, I think we need to improve our awareness and professionalism," Rizwan said. “Even now, we have players from whom our people might have less hope but the outside world is watching our players and talking about them,” the skipper said.

He also noted that while local supporters may have reservations about certain players, international cricketing circles recognise and respect their abilities.