Former Pakistan wicketkeeper Zulqarnain Haider has hailed Mohammad Rizwan’s appointment as Pakistan’s white-ball captain, comparing his leadership style to that of legendary Indian skipper MS Dhoni.
Rizwan’s tenure began with a historic series victory in Australia, where Pakistan overcame a loss in the opener to win the subsequent two ODIs and seal the series 2-1. Haider believes Rizwan’s 360-degree view of the field as a wicketkeeper-captain gives him an advantage in setting fields and guiding bowlers.
“A wicketkeeper-captain is a big help for a team,” Haider said. “Rizwan is doing the same. He is an effective batter, a good wicketkeeper, and now, a captain. This can help the team immensely.”
Haider also noted the positive impact on Babar Azam’s batting since relinquishing the captaincy. “Babar Azam was overburdened,” Haider said. “The moment he gave up captaincy, his batting improved. Now we can see him playing freely, without any burden.”
The series also showcased the brilliance of pacer Haris Rauf, who claimed 10 wickets and was named Player of the Series. Haider attributed Rauf’s growth to his experience bowling against Virat Kohli in the 2022 T20 World Cup.
“Bowling to Virat has made Haris Rauf a more mature bowler,” Haider said. “That was a huge learning curve in his career, and I am certain he took many lessons from that match.”
Haider also expressed his desire for India to tour Pakistan for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. “India should come to Pakistan,” he said. “Let’s forget everything and start afresh. Fans love India vs Pakistan cricket matches more than anything else in this world. Let’s love the game, not politics.”
