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'Restricts Non-Muslims, Arranges..,' Imam-ul-Haq's Sneak Peek To Rizwan's Off-Field Duties

Soumyajit Dutta

Mohammed Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq [Source: @Incognito_qfs/X.com]Mohammed Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq [Source: @Incognito_qfs/X.com]

Pakistan opener Imam-ul-Haq has offered a rare glimpse into captain Mohammad Rizwan’s off-field leadership style, revealing quirky yet polarizing habits that include organizing prayer schedules, micromanaging hotel room allocations, and even restricting non-Muslims from certain team spaces. 

The revelations come amid mounting criticism of Pakistan’s chaotic Champions Trophy campaign, which ended in a humiliating group-stage exit after losses to India and New Zealand.

Imam-ul-Haq Reveals Rizwan's Peculiar Habit

When asked about leadership dynamics in the Pakistan dressing room during a candid interview, Imam-ul-Haq burst into laughter before singling out Rizwan. 

“Who shall I name as a leader? Sare ladh rahe hai aapas mein (Everyone’s fighting among themselves). 

Imam revealed how Rizwan usually takes up the leadership role in gathering the team for religious activities.

"For now, I can say Rizzi (Rizwan). He arranges rooms in hotels, gathers everyone for Namaz, spreads white sheets [for prayers], restricts non-Muslims from entering. He also makes WhatsApp groups for Namaz timings,” Imam disclosed, highlighting Rizwan’s hands-on, faith-driven approach.

As the wicketkeeper-batter has long been criticised for his questionable leadership, Imam’s remarks have ignited debate about whether Mohammad Rizwan should micromanage religious activities or focus on the team's performance. 

Pakistan Exits Champions Trophy After Slump

The scrutiny of Rizwan’s methods follows Pakistan’s disastrous Champions Trophy campaign. Babar Azam’s men crashed out early after a 6-wicket loss to India, where Rizwan scored a laboured 46 off 77 balls, and a defeat to New Zealand. The team’s lack of cohesion was glaring, with players appearing out of rhythm.

With Pakistan cricket at a crossroads after the exit, questions linger over whether Rizwan is as active in leading the team on the field as he is off-field. As the PCB scrambles to appoint a new coaching staff as per rumours they will face Bangladesh for the last group stage match at Rawalpindi on February 27.