"We only play for Green flag:" Rizwan refutes grouping rumours in Pakistan team

Pakistan's wicketkeeper-batter Mohmmad Rizwan has vehemently denied rumours of grouping within the team.

Speaking on the International Day of Sports Journalists in Peshawar, the 32-year-old cricketer said that the team only plays for the green flag of Pakistan, and their focus is solely on the opponent team they face.

"When we play for the country, we only think about the opponent team. We don't know anything else except ball and bat," he said.

"Only hard work and courage are in our hands," Rizwan added.

"Those who can't handle criticism can't achieve anything in life. We should focus on what we can do for the country, not what others say."

Rizwan's remarks came after Pakistan's disappointing performance in the T20 World Cup 2024, where they suffered consecutive defeats against the debutant USA and India, and eventually bowed out of the tournament in the first stage.

Rizwan also praised Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi for his hard work.

"I’ve seen this chairman if he’s in the US at night then he will be in Lahore in the morning.... then in Multan in the night and then he will be in Ireland. I think Mohsin Naqvi is a very hard-working chairman,” the opening batter said.