Mohammad Rizwan reviews the first warm-up game

In the first warm-up match against New Zealand of ICC World Cup 2023, Pakistan showed promise but identified key areas for improvement as they prepare for the upcoming tournament. 

After choosing to bat first, Pakistan encountered an early stumble, losing two wickets, but made a comeback with strong partnerships, notably led by skipper Babar Azam and wicket-keeper batter Mohammad Rizwan.

Babar and Rizwan showed their skill and composure, forming a partnership of 114 runs for the third wicket. Rizwan, in particular, displayed fluent play against spin, crafting well-executed shots over extra-cover. He impressively pressed on to achieve a century before retiring out at 103 runs off 94 balls.

Reflecting on the warm-up match, Rizwan emphasized the purpose of these matches is to identify areas for improvement and experiment with different strategies. He acknowledged the need to test the bench and give opportunities to various players. Despite New Zealand chasing a target of 346, Rizwan pointed out positive aspects, including notable performances in both bowling and batting.

"The aim of warm-up matches is to see the areas where we need improvement. In this match we also experimented, we tried different things. We got good things in returns but also we got some areas which requires improvement," Rizwan said.

"You have to play 15 players, you have to test the bench too; you also have to do some experiments. Thats' right, they [New Zealand] chased 346 but if you see it the other way round, Shaheen's ten overs, Haris Rauf's six overs, similarly Shadab's and Iftikhar's overs, so that was a change from our side. But we have got good returns too like Hassan's bowling, good innings from our batters," he further added.

Hear from @iMRizwanPak as he discusses the #NZvPAK warm-up match and playing in India 🗣️#CWC23 | #WeHaveWeWill pic.twitter.com/hoEWE1Pp1z

— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) September 30, 2023

However, Rizwan emphasized the need for improvement in the fielding department, recognizing that fielding lapses cost them in the match due to positioning. Looking forward, the team aims to work on this aspect and elevate their fielding standards.

"That's true we need to improve in our fielding department. We have been doing good in fielding over the course of time but fielding I think costed us the match too because the positions were different. However we need to work on it," Rizwan said.

With the tournament approaching, Rizwan mentioned being aware of the favorable batting pitches in India and expressed confidence in their ability to read and adapt to the conditions.

"We had an idea that India has favourable batting pitches. We had in our minds that we'll read the conditions properly first. As far as my innings is concerned , any century irrespective of where it has been scored, it always matters and provides satisfaction and confidence for upcoming matches," he further added.

Rizwan concluded by expressing the emotional pride of representing Pakistan and pledged to strive to meet the expectations of their country, promising a strong performance in the upcoming matches.

"Its always emotional and a moment of proud when playing for your country. We will try to fulfil everyone's expectations back in Pakistan," Rizwan concluded.