PAK vs AUS: Mohammad Rizwan aims to lead Pakistan with consultative approach in Australia series

Pakistan's newly appointed white-ball captain, Mohammad Rizwan, emphasized a team-oriented leadership approach during a pre-series media talk at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday.

As the national team prepares for its ODI series against Australia, Rizwan expressed his commitment to supporting his teammates and welcoming ideas from both experienced and younger players.

"For me, everyone is a captain. If they feel they have something good, they can share it [with me]," Rizwan said.

He also affirmed that he would adopt a collaborative approach, valuing input from players of all ages.

"I am going to go [forward] via a consultative approach [on matters] and also seek advice from young players as well," he added.

Rizwan stepped into the captaincy role last Sunday, replacing Babar Azam, who opted to step down to focus more on his batting. The team will also see changes in coaching, with former Australian cricketer Jason Gillespie serving as interim head coach. Gillespie, who has in-depth knowledge of Australian conditions, takes over after Gary Kirsten left the position due to differences with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

In response to questions about the potential return of Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi for the first ODI after they were rested for the final two Tests against England, Rizwan expressed unwavering support for both players, pointing to their performances as evidence of their value to the team. "Today, Babar and Shaheen are known [to the world] only because of their performances," he said. "I will support them as much as I can."

Pakistan will kick off the tour with a three-match ODI series starting November 4, followed by a three-match T20 series.