Following his match-winning century against Sri Lanka in the 2023 World Cup’s 8th match at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Pakistan’s wicket-keeper batsman, Mohammad Rizwan, was in high spirits.
During his conversation with the commentators after receiving the Player of the Match award, he provided a lighthearted response that greatly amused the fans.
Sri Lanka set the initial target by scoring a substantial 344/9. Mohammad Rizwan (131*) and Abdullah Shafique (113) powered Pakistan to reach 345/4 in 48.2 overs, securing victory. This achievement represents the World Cup’s most extensive successful chase to date.
Having kept wickets for the full 50 overs in the afternoon heat, Mohammad Rizwan also batted for over 40 overs. Despite suffering from cramps several times during the chase, Rizwan continued to fight and eventually led his team to victory.
Following the match, when commentator Simon Doull inquired about the cramps, Rizwan replied:
“Sometimes it’s cramps, sometimes it’s my acting.”
You can watch Rizwan’s reply here:
https://x.com/sportsworld0412/status/1711827074607185988?s=46
“I am speechless at this moment” -Mohammad Rizwan’s stellar performance against Sri Lanka earned him the Player of Match
Following the game, Mohammad Rizwan shared his joy about securing the victory for his nation on the grand stage. He mentioned feeling proud and overwhelmed by the achievement.
Rizwan further explained that Pakistan’s batting lineup was full of confidence at the halfway point, despite Sri Lanka setting a formidable target. He stated:
“Always a proud moment for me whenever you perform for your country. I am speechless at this moment. It was difficult in the chase. The thing was that after the bowling innings we went back and everyone was confident.”
He added:
“We lost Babar Azam early unfortunately, but we got good partnerships after that. It’s a good track and we decided to play sensibly. I told Shafique to take it at step by step during our partnership.”
Mohammad Rizwan has been in exceptional ODI form this year, with an impressive set of scores: 77*(86), 28(50), 77(74), 42*(34), 54*(41), 32(34), 24(28), 9(15), 21(22), 2(7), 67(79), 44(50), 63*(79), 2(5), 86*(73), 68(76), and 134*(121).
Pakistan supporters will be eager for him to maintain this high level of performance in the remaining matches of the current World Cup.
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