Following his heroic performance in the Asia Cup 2023 Super Four opener, Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan received high appreciation from former India opener Aakash Chopra. On September 6 at the Gaddafi Stadium, Pakistan defeated Shakib Al Hasan’s Bangladesh team by seven wickets in a low-scoring match.
Haris Rauf outstanding bowling performance (4/19) allowed Pakistan to dismiss Bangladesh for a pitiful score of 193 runs in 38.4 overs. Imam-ul-Haq, Pakistan’s opener (78 off 84), and Rizwan added 74 runs together for the third wicket to stabilise Pakistan’s innings. The keeper-batter went on to smash an undefeated 63 off 79 balls, aiding Pakistan in achieving the mark in 39.3 overs.
Rizwan was praised by Chopra and referred to as a “warrior” in his YouTube video. The 45-year-old added that Rizwan is a player who thrives under pressure for Pakistan.
“Mohammad Rizwan – I really enjoy this player. He is a warrior who never gives up. He thrives more the more pressure you apply on him. Whether you play him in T20Is, ODIs, or Tests, he always performs at his peak whenever Pakistan is having trouble, according to Chopra.
When facing fast bowlers, Mohammad Rizwan plays spin exceptionally effectively and possesses a great pick-up shot: ,Aakash Chopra
Chopra continued by praising Mohammad Rizwan for being at the wicket until the very end and supporting his team’s victory. He said that the 31-year-old is “very good” at playing against both pace and spin.
He waited to the very end to give them the victory here as well. He danced down the wicket to hit over cover and played some excellent sweeps. He excels at playing spin, and his pick-up shot against quick bowlers is excellent. In that case, Mohammad Rizwan is a very, very good player, the former cricketer continued.