Introduction:
Pakistan cricket has once again found itself in the middle of a storm. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has removed wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan from the ODI captaincy, replacing him with star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi. The sudden decision has triggered widespread speculation, with former cricketer Rashid Latif alleging that Rizwan’s open support for Palestine cost him the captaincy. This has left fans questioning: Why was Mohammad Rizwan removed as Pakistan ODI captain?
Shaheen Shah Afridi Takes Over as Captain
The PCB announced Shaheen Shah Afridi as the new ODI captain, replacing Rizwan just months after he had taken charge from Babar Azam. The move has surprised cricket analysts, especially since Afridi had earlier lost his T20 captaincy.
Allegations of Political Reasons Behind the Decision
Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif claimed on social media that Rizwan’s public support for Palestine played a key role in his removal. He alleged that head coach Mike Hesson was unhappy with Rizwan’s religious culture in the dressing room and pushed for the change.
Latif questioned, “Can a player be removed from captaincy just for holding a Palestinian flag?” His explosive comments have fueled speculation that politics may have overshadowed cricketing decisions.
Rizwan’s History of Supporting Palestine
Mohammad Rizwan has repeatedly expressed solidarity with Palestine. After Pakistan’s win against Sri Lanka in the 2023 ODI World Cup, he dedicated the victory to the people of Gaza. Earlier in April 2024, during the Pakistan Super League (PSL), Rizwan pledged that every six hit and every wicket taken by his team would result in donations to Palestinian charities.
PCB’s Official Stand
The PCB has not given any official explanation for Rizwan’s removal. A brief statement only mentioned that the decision came after discussions between the selection committee and head coach Mike Hesson in Islamabad. Reports suggest that senior PCB officials supported the change.
FAQs on Why was Mohammad Rizwan removed as Pakistan ODI captain
Q1: Why was Mohammad Rizwan removed as Pakistan ODI captain?
The PCB has not provided a clear reason, but former cricketer Rashid Latif claims it was linked to Rizwan’s public support for Palestine and internal disagreements with head coach Mike Hesson.
Q2: Who is the new Pakistan ODI captain?
Shaheen Shah Afridi has been appointed as the new ODI captain, replacing Mohammad Rizwan.
Q3: Has Rizwan supported Palestine before?
Yes. Rizwan has openly supported Palestine multiple times, dedicating wins and pledging donations to Palestinian charities.
Conclusion on why was Mohammad Rizwan removed as Pakistan ODI captain
The removal of Mohammad Rizwan as Pakistan’s ODI captain has sparked controversy both within cricketing circles and beyond. While the PCB remains silent on the exact reasons, allegations linking the move to Rizwan’s support for Palestine have intensified the debate. Whether this was purely a cricketing decision or influenced by political and cultural factors remains unclear.
Disclaimer on why was Mohammad Rizwan removed as Pakistan ODI captain
This article is based on publicly available reports and statements. The allegations mentioned are claims made by former cricketers and have not been officially confirmed by the PCB. Readers should rely on official announcements for verified updates.
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