Former Pakistan captain and current senior wicket-keeper Mohammad Rizwan has come forward to back the decision to include the young wicket-keeper Ghazi Ghori in Pakistan’s national squad for the upcoming One Day International (ODI) series against Bangladesh. Rizwan expressed his support during a media interaction held at Pakistan’s training camp in Karachi, where the team is preparing rigorously ahead of the crucial tour. His comments come amid a wave of debate and scrutiny surrounding Ghori’s selection, especially given the player’s relatively limited experience at the domestic level.
Ghazi Ghori is one of six uncapped players named in the squad for the Bangladesh tour, highlighting the selectors’ intent to infuse fresh talent into the team. Alongside Ghori, the other newcomers include Abdul Samad, Maaz Sadaqat, Saad Masood, Sahibzada Farhan, and Shamyl Hussain. This move has sparked considerable discussion among cricket enthusiasts and former players, particularly on social media platforms, where many questioned the readiness of Ghori for international cricket. Critics have pointed to his modest domestic record, noting that Ghori has only featured in 17 List A matches, maintaining an average just above 20 and a strike rate under 80, which some feel is insufficient for the demands of international cricket.
Despite the skepticism, Rizwan firmly believes that Ghori’s selection is justified based on his performances and potential. He emphasized that every player deserves a fair chance to prove themselves at the highest level. “Ghazi has earned his place through his performances,” Rizwan stated, acknowledging that opinions will naturally vary but underscoring the meritocratic nature of team selection. He further elaborated on the importance of having multiple wicket-keeping options available to Pakistan, suggesting that this depth could be advantageous in the long run. “Historically, Pakistan has seen many wicket-keepers performing well. It’s encouraging to see new talent emerging because it increases competition and could help us discover the ideal fit for the team,” Rizwan added.
The upcoming three-match ODI series between Pakistan and Bangladesh is scheduled to take place from March 11 to 15, with all matches set at the Shere Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka. Rizwan also issued a cautionary note regarding the challenge posed by Bangladesh on their home turf. He reminded everyone that despite what the team sheets might suggest, Bangladesh remains a formidable opponent in familiar conditions. “While on paper the series might appear straightforward, Bangladesh is a strong side when playing at home. Their pitches suit their style, and we must be prepared for that,” Rizwan remarked. He reassured fans that Pakistan’s squad still includes players who have experience playing in subcontinental conditions similar to those in Bangladesh, which should help the team adapt effectively.
When questioned about the absence of several senior players from the squad, Rizwan refrained from commenting directly on the selection decisions, stating that the selection committee is best positioned to explain the rationale behind those choices. “If I had been part of the selection meetings, I could have provided insights on why certain players were omitted,” he said. Rizwan also highlighted the critical role of the team captain in the selection and team-building process. He insisted that the captain’s views must be considered seriously by the selectors and coaching staff, as the captain leads the team on the field and understands the dynamics better than anyone else. “If the captain’s opinions are ignored by the selection committee or head coach, then that person should not hold the captaincy. Leadership requires that the captain’s voice be heard and respected,” Rizwan emphasized.
Beyond team composition, Rizwan touched upon the intense pressure modern cricketers face at all levels of the game. He stressed the need for increased professionalism and mental preparedness within Pakistan cricket to keep pace with other international teams. “Pressure is a constant, whether you’re playing club cricket, domestic matches, or international fixtures. Other teams have advanced in handling these pressures, and we need to develop similar awareness and professionalism to compete effectively,” Rizwan explained. This perspective reflects his broader vision for the future of Pakistan cricket, where mental strength and discipline are as vital as technical skills.
Lastly, Rizwan was asked about circulating reports that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had imposed a hefty fine of Rs5 million on each player following the team’s disappointing performance in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. However, he chose not to comment on these claims, stating that no official announcement has been made by the PCB regarding such penalties. “There has been a lot of speculation and media talk, but until the board issues an official statement, I cannot confirm anything about the alleged fines,” Rizwan concluded, leaving the matter open for clarification from the governing body.
