'Cricket needs my bat, not my English’ – Mohammad Rizwan claps back at critics

Pakistan’s One Day International (ODI) captain Mohammad Rizwan has hit back at critics for his ongoing scrutiny over his English-speaking skills, saying that his primary responsibility is to play cricket and not to be fluent in English.

Speaking at a press conference in Karachi on Friday, Rizwan opened up about his journey, challenges, and the misplaced expectations placed on athletes, particularly when it comes to language skills.

The Multan Sultans' captain admitted that he never had the opportunity to complete his education, which is why he is not fluent in English but stressed that he feels no shame in that fact.

“I regret not being able to pursue my education fully, which is why I do not know English well,” Rizwan said. “But I am not embarrassed. I am the captain of Pakistan, and I am proud of that. I am expected to perform on the field, not deliver speeches in English.”

Rizwan emphasized that his duty is to serve Pakistan through his cricketing talent.

“My country asks me to play cricket, not to speak English. If the requirement was English, I would have become a professor and learned it,” he added with a smile.

The right-handed batter said that despite his limited fluency, he can communicate effectively and confidently when needed.

“I can speak enough English to explain myself to a foreigner. If someone comes from abroad, I’ll be able to make them understand me, even confuse them a little,” Rizwan joked. “The problem is not with my English, it is with those who are already looking to be upset with me.”

Addressing critics of the national team, Rizwan urged them to pair their criticism with constructive feedback.

“It is okay to criticize the team. That is part of the game but they should also guide us and help us grow,” he said. “It hurts when people only criticize without offering solutions. Recently, Wasim Akram gave some valuable advice during a Champions Trophy match. I wanted to talk more, but did not get the chance.”

He stressed the importance of positive mentoring, especially from senior players and former cricketers.

“If we, as seniors, only criticize, then juniors will have every right to be upset with us,” he said. “We must correct and support them.”

In response to a question about handling public pressure, Rizwan shared a powerful message on resilience:

“The most successful people in the world were once called crazy but later everyone followed them. If you can not handle criticism, you can not achieve anything.”

On fan reactions, Rizwan acknowledged their emotions and loyalty.

“It is fair for fans to be upset; they love us, and that is why they expect better. Their love drives us to do more.”

He also praised the role of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) in uplifting national cricket.

“The PSL has given Pakistan so much. Now, it is time for everyone to enjoy this league and celebrate what it is doing for the sport.”