Rizwan clears the air about team’s performance

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s ODI cricket captain Mohammad Rizwan has clarified his stance amid growing questions over team’s performance and internal matters.

Speaking to reporters, Rizwan emphasized that his responsibility is confined strictly to captaincy-related affairs and his own on-field performance -- not selection or management decisions. “You’re welcome to ask me anything about captaincy, strategy, or my own performance -- I’m fully accountable for those,” Rizwan stated confidently. “However, when it comes to selection policies or decisions made by the management, I have no involvement and nothing to say. Those matters are beyond my authority.”

Acknowledging the team’s recent slump in performance, Rizwan admitted things haven’t been ideal. “Yes, we haven’t delivered the way we should have. There can be various factors behind that. But I can only speak for what’s under my control as a captain and as a player.”

Adding to the discourse, star batter and former captain Babar Azam was asked about his apparent reluctance to address internal team issues publicly. In response, Babar said that airing such concerns in the media isn’t constructive.

“The media isn’t the right forum to discuss sensitive team matters,” Babar explained. “I’ve always spoken my heart out -- but I’ve done so where it actually matters, behind the closed doors. Speaking publicly about internal matters doesn’t serve any purpose.” As scrutiny intensifies over Pakistan’s recent performances, both players emphasized professionalism, unity, and the importance of handling internal challenges discreetly.