Mohammad Rizwan Babar Azam Salman Agha. Image Credits: ChatGPT/AFP
The ongoing PSL 2026 has already delivered several thrilling and closely fought matches. However, things have not gone according to plan for the newly introduced franchise Rawalpindiz. Led by Mohammad Rizwan, the team entered the tournament with high hopes following PSL's expansion from six to eight teams.
Despite the early hype, the team have struggled to find momentum. Their latest setback came on April 6 at Gaddafi Stadium, where they suffered a seven-wicket defeat against Multan Sultans.
This loss marked their fourth consecutive defeat, leaving them in seventh place on the points table, just above Hyderabad Kingsmen due to a slightly better net run rate.
Mohammad Rizwan's wicket cost early blow to Rawalpindiz
Batting first after Multan Sultans captain Ashton Turner opted to field, Rawalpindi Pindiz had a promising start. Rizwan looked in good touch early on, scoring 10 runs in the opening over.
Rizwan tried to anchor the innings alongside Kamran Ghulam, but his stay at the crease was cut short in the 5.2 over.
Facing Arafat Minhas, Rizwan misjudged a delivery that darted back in. He was caught on the crease and struck in front of the stumps. The umpire raised his finger, and Mohammad Rizwan immediately went for a review.
Also Read: Mohammad Rizwan Exposed In Fresh Controversy With New PSL Team Owner
Ball-tracking confirmed the decision with three reds, forcing the Pindiz skipper to walk back after scoring 19 runs.
The dismissal not only halted his momentum but also cost Rawalpindiz a crucial review early in the innings.
Commentators take brutal dig at Mohammad Rizwan
While Mohammad Rizwan’s dismissal was significant, it was what followed that grabbed widespread attention. During the match, commentators Lisa Sthalekar and Aamir Sohail were heard discussing Rizwan’s on-field communication.
Rizwan was picked up on the stump mic, saying 'Chalo, chalo'. Reacting to this, Lisa Sthalekar noted it as a sharp early call.
However, Aamir Sohail responded with a sarcastic remark, suggesting that Rizwan would be better suited working at a bus stand, adding that he would 'earn quite well there.'
Lisa Sthalekar, "Good early call from Rizwan, we heard him on the stump mic. Chalo, chalo."
Aamir Sohail, "You should be working at a bus stand. You would be earning a lot of money."
The comment quickly went viral on social media, sparking mixed reactions.
Mohammad Rizwan's performance in PSL 2026
Mohammed Rizwan's performances with the bat have also been underwhelming this season. In four matches, he has managed to score just 83 runs at an average of 20.75 and a strike-rate of 125.76, with a highest score of 41.
As both captain and a key batter, Rizwan carries significant responsibility. His inability to convert starts into big scores has hurt the team's chances in crucial moments. Combined with the team's overall struggles, the lack of form has added to Rawalpindiz’ trouble.
With the Karachi leg of the tournament approaching, Mohammed Rizwan and his team will need to regroup quickly. A turnaround is essential if they hope to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Also Read: Guwahati Stadium Pitch Report, Weather Report For RR Vs MI- Match 13, IPL 2026
