Pakistan’s wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan and all-rounder Iftikhar Ahmed are currently enduring a challenging period in their cricketing careers. Following Pakistan’s premature exit from the group stage of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, both players have come under fire for their lackluster performances during the tournament.
In a recent practice session, Rizwan and Iftikhar faced difficulties against a local net bowler named Nouman Khan Khaira. This incident has sparked criticism and trolling of the Pakistani stars on social media, further adding to their ongoing struggles.
Fans roast Mohammad Rizwan and Iftikhar Ahmed for struggling against a local bowler
A recently circulated video online has captured the struggle of Mohammad Rizwan and Iftikhar Ahmed, renowned for their international batting prowess, as they faced challenges from local net bowler Nouman Khan Khaira. The footage clearly shows Khaira’s impressive pace and accuracy causing difficulties for both seasoned players.
During the session, Khaira managed to trouble Rizwan with an edge off his bat and struck Iftikhar on the glove, highlighting his skill and consistency. Despite being relatively unknown beyond local cricket circles, Khaira demonstrated exceptional talent that forced the experienced duo to work hard during their net session.
The incident has sparked widespread ridicule on social media, with fans questioning the form of Rizwan and Iftikhar. Their struggles against a local bowler raise concerns for the Pakistan cricket team, which is aiming to rebound strongly following a disappointing performance in the T20 World Cup 2024.
Watch here how Mohammad Rizwan and Iftikhar Ahmed stunned by a net bowler:
Looking forward, Pakistan is gearing up to host Bangladesh for a two-match Test series set to take place between August and September. This series holds significance as part of the ongoing 2023–2025 ICC World Test Championship cycle and provides Pakistan with an opportunity to recover from recent setbacks.
As preparations intensify for the upcoming home season, much attention will be on how senior players such as captain Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Iftikhar Ahmed rejuvenate their form. Their performances will be crucial as Pakistan aims to reclaim its position and stature in international cricket.
PCB to take call on Babar Azam’s future as Pakistan captain soon
Amidst ongoing uncertainty, Pakistan’s white-ball captain Babar Azam’s future remains in question, along with the fate of the selection committee, as head coach Gary Kirsten and selector Wahab Riaz have submitted their reports on the disappointing T20 World Cup 2024 campaign to PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
Pakistan faced a significant setback in the T20 World Cup 2024, exiting the tournament after just three matches with losses against the USA and India. Despite this, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi emphasized that no decisions have been finalized regarding Azam’s captaincy in white-ball cricket. Naqvi indicated that discussions with former Pakistan cricketers and head coach Kirsten will play a pivotal role in determining the path forward.
Sources within the PCB suggested that substantial changes are unlikely in Pakistan cricket, hinting instead at minor adjustments while maintaining continuity within the national team.
