Will Mohammad Rizwan ODI selection be dropped?
Mohammad Rizwan ODI selection is in jeopardy now as Pakistan prepare for the ODI series against Australia and it shows a greater overhaul in the team’s ODI approach. Joey is already having injury issues in Pakistan. Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman have been out of contention. This has left the top order in a weakened position even before the series started. But the larger story is that of Rizwan possibly being left out.
The selection committee is seen as being very active with head coach Mike Hesson and captain Shaheen Shah Afridi. In their talks, they appear to be hinting at a new direction for the Pakistan ODI team. This plan may not include Rizwan, who was a major element in the team earlier.
The move seems to be connected to T20 strategy changes recently. Hesson is said not to be certain about Rizwan’s place in the developing white-ball system. That suggests some questions regarding team balance and playing style. It could be that Pakistan are considering more attacking shots now.
One of the other key considerations is long term planning. Sources also indicate that Rizwan is also not in contention for the next ODI World Cup. This shows that selectors are focusing on the future as well as the present and are developing a youthful set.
Rizwan’s departure will be a significant change. He has been one of the most reliable players for Pakistan in last few years. His absence will create opportunities for fresh faces in the middle order, along with the position of wicket-keeper.
This is overall a transition move. Pakistan is on the verge of changing its policy and adopting a new approach, dropping the old guard for a speedy and modern ODI side. The final squad list will reveal if this daring move is to be made.
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