“KL Rahul also kept wickets in Chennai heat” – Shoaib Akhtar talks upon Mohammad Rizwan dealing with cramps in Pakistan-Sri lanka match.

Shoaib Akhtar recently brought attention to the issue of Pakistan’s wicketkeeper-batsman, Mohammad Rizwan, experiencing cramps during multiple matches. Rizwan’s remarkable performance against Sri Lanka in the ongoing 2023 World Cup in Hyderabad was particularly noteworthy. Despite visibly struggling with cramps, he exhibited tremendous determination and continued to bat, eventually contributing to a match-winning century.

In the game against Sri Lanka, Rizwan’s resilience shone brightly as he remained unbeaten on 131, playing a pivotal role in Pakistan’s historic chase of a daunting 345-run target. The team secured a remarkable victory with six wickets in hand, and Rizwan’s heroic innings played a crucial part in this achievement.

Shoaib Akhtar acknowledged that Rizwan’s cramping issue was understandable, given that he had to perform wicketkeeping duties for the entire 50 overs of the match. The former fast bowler, however, highlighted a similar instance involving Team India’s KL Rahul. Rahul’s remarkable performance occurred in sweltering conditions in Chennai against Australia, where he played an unbeaten inning of 97 runs, ultimately leading his team to a six-wicket victory.

Shoaib Akhtar said “Mohammad Rizwan gets cramps very often. I can understand that you are not a very big unit, and it is very demanding on the body to keep wickets for 50 overs and then score a hundred. But KL Rahul also kept wickets in Chennai heat and almost scored a hundred.” 

Akhtar further commended Mohammad Rizwan for his outstanding commitment and determination, appreciating his ability to carry the bat through till the end of the match, contributing significantly to Pakistan’s success, saying

“Mohammad Rizwan took Pakistan home with a brilliant knock. The way he batted in the second half of his innings was very crucial. The way he scored after crossing 70 was very heartwarming to see. He played for his country and made sure they won.”