Pakistan’s new white-ball captain Mohammad Rizwan has reacted to Fakhar Zaman being snubbed from the central contract list and claimed that some decisions are beyond his control.
Fakhar was excluded from the contract list on October 27, Sunday, just weeks after his tweet slamming the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for their treatment of Babar Azam.
proved to be decisive in their call to axe the 34-year-old from the contract list. In response to a question about the opener’s return, Rizwan commended Fakhar’s game-changing talent, highlighting his proven ability to make a significant impact under any conditions.
The new Pakistan captain is hoping that the situation surrounding Fakhar can be resolved soon.
“There’s no question about Fakhar’s impact, he is an influential player who can change the game singlehandedly on any conditions,” he stated. “While some decisions are beyond my control, we have discussed his potential return and hope the matter will soon be resolved.”
Pakistan ready to work with whoever comes in as new head coach
Following the announcement of Rizwan’s appointment and the squads for the Australia and Zimbabwe tours, Kirsten left after just 6 months into the job and after a torrid run for Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2024.
When questioned about Pakistan’s search for a new head coach for the white-ball squad, Rizwan emphasised that the team is prepared to collaborate with whoever takes on the role.
“When you’re playing for country then you’re beyond individuals.
“Our focus is always on playing for Pakistan, not on individual positions. Whoever is chosen as head coach, we will work together to achieve our goals.”
With Kirsten’s resignation, Jason Gillespie will be taking over the role as Pakistan white-ball coach for the Australia tour, where they will be in action in both ODIs and T20Is. Pakistan’s tour of Australia will kick off with the first ODI at the Melbourne Cricket Stadium on November 4. Following that, Pakistan is set to begin their tour of Zimbabwe on November 24, starting with the opening ODI in Bulawayo.
