"Rizwan doesn't score runs when it matters", says former Pakistan cricketer

Former Pakistan cricketer Danish Kaneria has lashed out at wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan, criticizing his inability to perform in crucial moments, particularly against India in the 2024 T20 World Cup. 

In a recent interview, Kaneria pointed out Rizwan's struggles in the high-pressure game, where Pakistan failed to chase down a modest 120-run target against their arch-rivals.

The former spinner was asked to choose between Rizwan and Indian wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant. Without hesitation, the cricketer-turned-expert favored Pant, citing Rizwan’s tendency to falter in key situations.

Kaneria emphasized, "He (Rizwan) doesn't score runs when it matters, that's the only problem. In the T20 World Cup, when Rizwan was on strike, Rohit Sharma deliberately brought in Jasprit Bumrah into the attack because he knew that he would get him out. It was very obvious.

The 43-year-old also highlighted a key moment from the match when Indian captain Rohit Sharma brought Jasprit Bumrah into the attack, anticipating Rizwan’s dismissal. 

"How could you sweep the first ball? I mean what is this. You couldn't score runs against Axar Patel, taking singles and doubles and putting pressure on your partner. Then, when you knew that a skipper has brought a fast bowler to get your wicket, you say, 'Here, take my wicket'," he said.

Rizwan managed 31 runs off 44 balls, striking at just 70.45 before losing his wicket to Bumrah in the 15th over. His dismissal, a wild slog that saw the ball crash into his stumps, left Pakistan under immense pressure, eventually leading to a narrow six-run defeat at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium.