Pakistan’s cricket captain, Mohammad Rizwan, called for greater focus and discipline within the squad during a press conference in Skipper Rizwan Urges Team to Boost Awareness, Professionalism Ahead of Crucial 2025 SeasonLahore on Tuesday. The 33-year-old leader admitted his team must improve its “awareness and professionalism” to end a decade-long trophy drought. His remarks came just three days after Pakistan’s narrow 12-run loss to Australia in a tense T20 series decider in Melbourne.
“We have talent, but talent alone doesn’t win tournaments,” Rizwan said, wearing a stern expression. “Small mistakes — dropped catches, miscommunication, poor decision-making under pressure — these cost us big moments. We must fix this mentality.” The defeat in Australia extended Pakistan’s winless streak in ICC events since their 2017 Champions Trophy triumph. Fans and experts have increasingly criticized the team’s inconsistent performances, particularly in knockout matches.
Fielding Woes Highlight Awareness Gaps
Rizwan singled out fielding as a critical weakness. Pakistan dropped six catches during the Australia series, including two reprieves to opener David Warner in the final match. Warner capitalized, smashing 78 runs off 42 balls to set up a match-winning total. “Awareness means anticipating the game, not just reacting,” Rizwan explained. “Fielders should position themselves smarter. Bowlers must communicate plans clearly. We’re working on these details daily now.”
Head coach Azhar Mahmood backed the skipper’s stance. “Modern cricket demands 360-degree effort,” he told reporters. “Last year, our fielding success rate was 68% — the lowest among top-eight teams. This year, we’re targeting 85%.” To address this, the team hired South African fielding coach Jonty Rhodes for a seven-day training camp earlier this month. Players underwent rigorous drills, including reaction-time exercises and boundary-line catching simulations.
Professionalism Under Scrutiny
Rizwan also emphasized off-field discipline. Reports surfaced in June about internal disagreements over training schedules and a player arriving late to a team meeting during the Australia tour. While Rizwan didn’t name individuals, he stressed the need for “accountability.” “Professionalism isn’t just about showing up. It’s about preparation, recovery, and respecting the process,” he said.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) recently introduced stricter fitness benchmarks. Players must now clear skinfold tests (a body fat measurement) every 45 days. Those failing twice face exclusion from squads. “No exceptions, even for seniors,” said PCB selector Hasan Cheema. Pacer Shaheen Afridi, who struggled with injuries in 2024, passed his latest test with a 12% body fat score — down from 15.6% in May.
New Strategies for High-Pressure Scenarios
Mental conditioning coach David Reid, hired in April, has focused on decision-making during crunch moments. Data shows Pakistan lost seven of their last nine matches that entered the final over. “We’re using virtual reality simulations to recreate high-pressure scenarios,” Reid revealed. “Batters face 360-degree projections of roaring crowds while bowlers strategize against holographic batters.”
Middle-order batter Mohammad Haris shared his experience: “At first, the VR helmet felt overwhelming. Now, I’m learning to block noise and focus on the ball.” Rizwan praised the initiative but insisted results would take time. “We can’t rush this. It’s about building habits.”
Fan Reactions Mixed Ahead of India Clash
With the Asia Cup set to begin on August 21 in Sri Lanka, fans remain divided. “Same old talk, no action,” tweeted former player Ramiz Raja. However, others applauded Rizwan’s honesty. “At least he’s addressing real issues,” wrote sports analyst Mazher Arshad.
All eyes now turn to Pakistan’s August 28 showdown against arch-rivals India — a match they haven’t won in ICC/Asia Cup events since 2017. Squad members will attend a week-long boot camp in the Himalayas to enhance teamwork. “Isolation from distractions helps bonding,” said Mahmood. “We’ll return hungrier.”
Rizwan concluded with a firm message: “Excuses won’t bring trophies. Actions will. We’re committed to changing the narrative.” As the team gears up for a packed 2025-26 season, including the T20 World Cup in October, their captain’s demands leave no room for complacency.
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