Mohammad Rizwan Expresses Disappointment Following Pakistan’s Champions Trophy Exit
Pakistan’s cricket captain Mohammad Rizwan expressed disappointment after the team’s poor performance led to their early elimination from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The team finished last in Group A due to injuries to key players and performed poorly throughout the tournament. Rizwan emphasized the need for improvement heading into their upcoming series against New Zealand.
Mohammad Rizwan, the captain of Pakistan’s cricket team, expressed his disappointment following the conclusion of their campaign in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which is co-hosted by Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates. His team finished at the bottom of Group A, following a washout against Bangladesh, having previously faced losses to New Zealand and India, ending with just one point.
Rizwan acknowledged that the absence of key players Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman due to injuries significantly affected the team’s performance. He remarked, “We wanted to do well and perform well in front of our nation. The expectations are very high. We didn’t perform well, and it is disappointing for us.” He emphasized that injuries disrupted the team’s balance but acknowledged that this should not serve as an excuse.
He elaborated on Ayub’s injury, stating that the player had been in excellent form in recent months but was sidelined due to an ankle injury sustained during the Test series against South Africa. Zaman started the tournament but was also ruled out after suffering an oblique muscle strain during the opening match against New Zealand.
When discussing the team’s depth, Rizwan stressed the necessity for continuous improvement in the domestic circuit, asserting, “If we want to improve and for Pakistan to have a high standard, we need awareness and professionalism.” He expressed that while some progress has been made, more efforts are needed to elevate the team’s performance.
Looking forward, Rizwan outlined Pakistan’s upcoming tour to New Zealand for a five-match T20I and three-ODI series starting on March 16. He stated the importance of learning from previous mistakes, hoping the team would return stronger in their next matches, particularly against New Zealand, where they intend to refine their strategies and execution.
In conclusion, Pakistan’s captain Mohammad Rizwan voiced his disappointment over the team’s early exit from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The team’s performance was notably hindered by injuries to key players, affecting their balance and effectiveness. Looking ahead, there is a focus on improving domestic standards and learning from past mistakes as Pakistan prepares for their upcoming series against New Zealand.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
