Mohammad Rizwan and Michael Bracewell discuss ODI series

MOUNT MAUNGANUI: Pakistan skipper Mohammad Rizwan and New Zealand skipper Michael Bracewell discussed the three-match ODI series in a press conference following the conclusion of the third match.

Mohammad Rizwan’s comments

Rizwan was asked about why Pakistan’s form in ODIs has suddenly deteriorated despite looking good against both South Africa and Australia last year. The skipper pointed to Pakistan’s poor performance in the latter overs, stating that if one looks back at the Champions Trophy and the tri nation series, the team is usually in control of the first 35-40 overs, no matter the conditions. It is in the latter overs that team usually begins to crumble, which is an issue that Rizwan says has been noted, and he hopes that the management will work on it to bring the team back into shape.

When asked about the responsibility he feels for the loss, Rizwan says that criticism is justified and that we are all accountable to someone. Even though he has only been captain of the side for six months, Rizwan believes that it is fair to criticize him and added that he always takes accountability for the mistakes he makes.

Regarding the decision to bowl first, Rizwan stated that no matter the player, the management, or the team, when facing New Zealand at 11 AM on a moist pitch, everyone would choose the same. The actual mistake according to Rizwan, is how they played the new ball.

“We survived the new ball. We just tried to make it through ten overs somehow,” Rizwan said, adding that “if we batted first, then you would have found another issue, because the conditions were very difficult at the time.”

Rizwan was also asked about his and Babar’s exclusion from the T20 side, to which he responded by stating that it was not his place to say anything.

“The decision they made, we accepted it, as we always do.”

Lastly, when asked about the factors relevant to Pakistan’s decline in form, Rizwan said that everyone knows what said factors are.

“The section committee knows the factors, management also knows, everyone knows. You also know, however many media people are sitting here all know what the factors are.”

Specifically, Rizwan pointed to awareness and professionalism as two big factors that need to be addressed and fixed.  

Also read: New Zealand complete whitewash of Pakistan as Sears takes five again

Michael Bracewell’s comments

Bracewell began his conference by saying that the series has been great for his team, especially considering they entered with a couple of debutants and added another as they went.

“We couldn’t be happier to be sitting here three nil up.”

The New Zealand skipper was asked how the debutants adjusted so quickly, to which he responded by pointing to the current strength of domestic cricket in the country, as well as the environment the cricket team has created to allow players to feel welcomed.

Bracewell was also asked about his incredible catch which sent Usman Khan off the field in the 22nd over and how moments like that can change the course of a game.

“I think my mind is a little bit younger than my body so I thought I was just gonna get there and take it without having to dive or anything like that, but it sorta just happened and I ended up on the ground and the ball in my hands.”

The media brought up how based on his performances Bracewell must wish he had been playing like this before. The Kiwi skipper had been side-lined for quite some time due to an Achilles injury.

“I wouldn’t change it for the world,” Bracewell said, as he discussed how one can get sped out quickly if they are thrust into international cricket without being ready. “My journeys my journey and I’ve really enjoyed that.”

In regards to New Zealand’s fast bowling arsenal, which includes Ben Sears, Jacob Duffy, and Will O’Rourke, Bracewell said those guys “just seem to keep getting better with the games that they’re playing and the experience that they’re building.” He added that once more experienced players, like Matt Henry who is currently injured, return, New Zealand cricket will be even stronger.

Specifically, in regards to Ben Sears fantastic performances in the final two matches of the ODI series, Bracewell discussed the 27-year-old bowler’s history with injuries.

“I’ve seen the way that Ben’s worked hard to get himself back from a number of injuries in the last couple of years.” The skipper complimented his “tireless work ethic” and that he’s a fantastic “resource to use as a captain.”

“I’m sure hes scaring a few batsmen along the way.”

Bracewell was also asked about the opportunity to lead his team on home soil, which the skipper responded to by saying “its been an honour first of all to lead here in New Zealand.” He touched on how playing in front of home fans was a highlight, as well as how his team responded well to what he asked of them.

Also read: Stephen Curry, Warriors down Nuggets, tighten race for 4th