Danish Kaneria, former Pakistan cricketer was blunt in his criticism of wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan. He highlighted Rizwan's struggles against the Indian bowlers during the 2024 T20 World Cup held in the West Indies and the USA. Kaneria shared these remarks when asked to choose between Rizwan and India's Rishabh Pant. The former cricketer-turned-analyst stated that he would opt for Pant over the Pakistani wicketkeeper. Justifying his decision, Kaneria pointed out that Rizwan has frequently come up short in high-pressure moments.
"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 ex spinner said on Sports Yaari.
"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 further added.
The Men in Green were tasked with chasing a 120-run target against India on a tough wicket at Nassau County International Cricket Stadium. Mohammad Rizwan contributed 31 runs from 44 deliveries, maintaining a strike rate of 70.45.
The 32-year-old was dismissed in the 15th over while attempting an aggressive slog off Jasprit Bumrah's delivery. Rizwan missed the ball entirely, and it crashed into the stumps. India went on to secure a tight six-run victory over their fierce rivals and then later go onto clinch the title on 29th June.
In the meantime, Pakistan's primary wicketkeeper has accumulated 78 runs over two innings in the ongoing Champions One-Day Cup 2024. With two victories from their first two matches, his side Makhrors are currently leading the tournament standings.