Renegades captain, coach apologize for retiring Mohammad Rizwan mid-batting

Melbourne Renegades captain Will Sutherland and head coach have issued an apology to Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan following a controversial decision to retire him out during a Big Bash League match due to slow scoring.

The unusual incident occurred during a tense phase of the game when Rizwan, struggling to accelerate the run rate, was asked to leave the field despite being not out. Sources close to the team confirmed that the Renegades’ management later acknowledged the situation and personally apologized to Rizwan for the handling of the moment.

Speaking after the match, Renegades skipper Will Sutherland admitted his regret over the decision. “The match was in a thrilling stage, emotions were high, and I am ashamed of my behavior. You are a quality player and well respected by fans,” Sutherland said while addressing Rizwan.

Rizwan, who was visibly unhappy at the time, had expressed his disappointment over the management’s call. The Pakistani international scored 26 runs off 23 balls, an innings that included two boundaries and a six but also featured a prolonged nine-ball stretch without a run. His strike rate stood at 113, prompting concerns from the team dugout as pressure mounted.

At that moment, Sutherland gestured for Rizwan to leave the field and sent another batter to the crease, a rare and bold move in professional cricket that immediately sparked debate.

The incident drew heavy criticism on social media, with some users questioning Rizwan’s suitability for T20 cricket. However, opinions remained divided, as a former Australian cricketer on the commentary panel backed the Renegades captain, stating that the decision should have been taken even earlier given the match situation.

Despite the backlash, the Renegades’ apology appears to have eased tensions, with the team acknowledging Rizwan’s experience and stature in international cricket. The episode has reignited discussions around strike rates, pressure decisions, and the fine balance between team strategy and player respect in modern T20 cricket.

RIZWAN RESPONDS, DISMISSES EXIT RUMOURS

Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan has addressed the controversy surrounding his unusual recall during a Big Bash League (BBL) match, firmly rejecting reports that he plans to leave the tournament early.

Speaking after the incident, Rizwan clarified that rumors about him abandoning his BBL contract and returning home are “baseless and false.” He confirmed that he remains fully committed to the Melbourne Renegades and will continue to be available for selection under the terms of his contract.

Despite the backlash, Rizwan adopted a composed and respectful stance. “It is my responsibility to follow the captain’s decision,” he said. “Our religion also teaches us obedience to our leader, and in cricket, the captain is the leader on the field. His decision must be accepted according to the match situation.”

Rizwan revealed that both the captain and head coach approached him after the game, thanked him for his professionalism, and apologised for how the situation was handled. Renegades skipper Will Sutherland later publicly expressed regret, admitting emotions ran high during the crucial stage of the match and praising Rizwan as a quality player respected by fans worldwide. For Rizwan, however, the matter appears settled. “I have no complaints,” he said, signaling his focus remains on contributing to the Renegades’ campaign.