Mohammad Rizwan likely to miss Pakistan ODI squad for Australia series

Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan is unlikely to be included in the national squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia, according to reports.

The selection committee is finalising the squad in consultation with head coach Mike Hesson and captain Shaheen Shah Afridi. Sources suggest that Rizwan, who has previously served as Pakistan captain, may not be part of the ODI plans for the series.

Reports further indicate that Hesson is not in favour of Rizwan’s inclusion in the ODI format, following a similar stance regarding his role in T20 cricket.

Rizwan has represented Pakistan in 103 ODIs, scoring 2,979 runs at an average of 40.08, including four centuries and 19 half-centuries. Behind the stumps, he has taken 113 catches and effected seven stumpings.

In Pakistan’s most recent ODI assignment in March 2026 against Bangladesh, Rizwan scored 58 runs across the three-match series.

Sources also suggest that young batter Ghazi Ghouri, who made his ODI debut earlier this year, is likely to be included in the squad for the Australia series. For the second wicketkeeper slot, Pakistan may consider either Usman Khan or Mirza Saad Baig.

The three-match ODI series against Australia is scheduled for May 30, June 2, and June 4, with the Australian team set to arrive in Islamabad on May 23.