3 Reasons Why Pakistan’s Mohammad Rizwan Will Succeed In Champions Trophy 2025?

Muskaan Bhatt

Mohd. Rizwan (Source: @CrazyCricJohns/X.com)Mohd. Rizwan (Source: @CrazyCricJohns/X.com)

As the Champions Trophy 2025 nears, the excitement among fans and the pressure amongst teams to give it their 110% is real. Especially for the defending champions, Pakistan, who have in the most recent time faced a lot of ups and downs. One significant shift has been a change in their leadership, however, the appointment of Mohammad Rizwan has been in their favour especially in the 50-over format.

Rizwan, who took charge from Babar Azam in the white-ball format would be leading the Men in Green in the highly awaited Champions Trophy. As approved, the ICC tournament will take place in a hybrid model in Pakistan and United Arab Emirates, since India would not be travelling to the neighbouring country due to security concerns. 

Nevertheless, most of the group stage matches would be played in Pakistan except for their game against India and two more games should the Rohit Sharma led side qualify for the semi-finals and finals.

The key for Pakistan's triumph in the coveted tournament depends largely on the contributions of each and every individual and even more so, on the shoulders of Captain Mohammad Rizwan. In this article, let us take a statistical look at three reasons why Rizwan would succeed in the Champions Trophy:

1) In-Form Rizwan 

Mohammad Rizwan has been in exceptional form, especially in recent home Tests and ODIs. From 2020 to 2023, he has played 19 matches, amassing 593 runs at an average of 42.35, with a highest score of 77* in ODIs. His consistency is impressive, with a strike rate of 84.71 and a solid contribution to Pakistan's batting lineup. 

In his last 10 ODI innings, Rizwan has scored over 40 runs six times. Notably, in the recent Pakistan vs South Africa ODI series, he scored 80 off 82 balls and followed it up with 53 off 52. His rhythm and form suggest that he’s ready to deliver in the upcoming matches for Pakistan.

Rizwan's Performance in Last 10 Outings

Team
Runs
Format
West Indies49 (75)TEST
West Indies25 (62)TEST
West Indies2 (6)TEST
West Indies
71 (133)
TEST
South Africa46 (82)TEST
South Africa41 (75)TEST
South Africa27 (62)TEST
South Africa3 (7)TEST
South Africa53 (52)ODI
South Africa80 (82)ODI

2) Captain Rizwan's 

Mohammad Rizwan’s statistics indicate a strong and consistent performer for Pakistan as a designated wicketkeeper, he has played 63 matches, amassing 1,945 runs at an average of 44.20. His high score of 131* and solid strike rate of 87.61 reflect his ability to anchor innings and accelerate when needed. With 3 centuries and 12 half-centuries, Rizwan has proven his reliability in critical moments. Interestingly, he has scored 1538 more runs when he has kept wickets for his team.

Moreover, Rizwan has captained in 9 ODI matches so far, scoring 264 runs at an impressive average of 52.80, with a high score of 80, and a strike rate of 80.73. As a captain, his leadership has brought out his batting prowess.

3) Stood Out In Big Tournaments With His Performance

Rizwan has consistently shone in major tournaments. During the 2023 World Cup, Rizwan played 9 matches, accumulating 395 runs at an exceptional average of 65.83. His high score of 131* highlighted his ability to play under pressure.

In the 2023 Asia Cup, Rizwan continued his fine form, scoring 195 runs in 5 matches at an average of 97.50. His highest score of 86* and a strike rate of 94.20 showcased his consistency in high-pressure situations.