Karachi [Pakistan], April 12: Pakistan’s white-ball captain Mohammad Rizwan responded candidly to social media trolls mocking his spoken English, asserting that his primary duty is to perform on the cricket field, not to deliver speeches in English.
Speaking at a press conference, Rizwan acknowledged the criticism surrounding his English fluency but made it clear he holds no shame about it. “I regret not completing my education, which is why I don’t know English, but I am not ashamed that as Pakistan’s captain, I cannot speak English,” he said, according to Geo News.
He emphasized that his job is to serve Pakistan as a cricketer, not as a linguist. “If Pakistan wanted English, I would become a professor, learn it, and return. But Pakistan asks me for cricket, not English,” he added.
Rizwan’s statement comes amid mounting scrutiny of Pakistan’s recent performances. Once hailed as a cricketing powerhouse in Asia, the national team has seen a significant dip in form. Pakistan faced a disappointing early exit from the Champions Trophy hosted on home soil, crashing out in the group stage after consecutive losses to New Zealand and India.
The downward spiral continued during the team’s tour of New Zealand, where Pakistan suffered a 4-1 defeat in the T20I series. Despite key players like Rizwan and Babar Azam returning for the ODIs, the team was swept 3-0 by a relatively inexperienced New Zealand squad.
Acknowledging the criticism, Rizwan urged former players and fans to play a more constructive role by offering guidance. “It’s fine to criticise the team, but also guide us on how to improve. Recently, during the Champions Trophy, Wasim Akram gave us advice. I wanted to talk more with him, but there wasn’t enough time,” Rizwan shared.
He also empathized with the frustration felt by Pakistani fans. “Fans are justified in their anger, and they’ve all the right to be upset at us because they also love us. But the Pakistan Super League (PSL) has given so much to Pakistan. Now it’s time to enjoy the league,” he concluded.
Despite the tough times, Rizwan’s humility and focus continue to win hearts, proving that leadership isn’t about flawless speech—it’s about honesty, resilience, and accountability.