Pakistan’s senior wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan has found a new challenge after his shock omission from the Asia Cup squad. The 32-year-old has signed up with the St. Kitts & Nevis Patriots for the remainder of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2025, marking his debut in one of the most exciting T20 tournaments in world cricket.
Rizwan’s move comes just days after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) excluded him from the Asia Cup squad—a decision that raised eyebrows given his experience and track record in T20 internationals.
While many fans and experts expressed disappointment, Rizwan has chosen to focus on what he does best: playing competitive cricket and proving his worth on the global stage.
Asia Cup Snub: A Big Talking Point in Pakistan Cricket
Rizwan’s omission from the Asia Cup 2025 squad was one of the biggest surprises in Pakistan cricket this year. Once considered a mainstay of Pakistan’s top order in white-ball cricket, Rizwan has faced stiff competition from younger players who are being groomed for the future.
The selectors’ decision sparked debates across cricketing circles. While some argued that Rizwan’s strike rate in T20s hasn’t been up to modern standards, others pointed to his consistent ability to anchor innings and perform in pressure situations.
Instead of sulking over the snub, Rizwan has quickly turned the page by embracing the CPL opportunity—a move that underlines his determination to stay relevant at the highest level.
According to reports, Rizwan will replace Afghanistan pacer Fazalhaq Farooqi, who is leaving the tournament to join his national side ahead of their tri-series against Pakistan and UAE.
The Patriots, who have managed just one win in their first four games, are desperate for a turnaround. Rizwan’s presence could provide them with the much-needed stability at the top of the order. His calm temperament, quick running between the wickets, and ability to build partnerships could help balance the team, which has so far struggled with consistency.
Though it is still uncertain if Rizwan will feature in the Patriots’ next clash against the Barbados Royals on August 22, he is expected to be available for the remainder of the season.
Stats That Show Why Rizwan Still Matters
T20 International (T20I) Career
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches | 106 |
| Runs | 3,414 |
| Average | 47.41 |
| Strike Rate | 125.37 |
| 50s / 100s | 30 / 1 |
This record places Rizwan among Pakistan’s most dependable T20 stalwarts. In T20Is, he’s not only accumulated runs but done so efficiently—averaging nearly 47 with a healthy strike rate in the 125 range.
T20I Performance Breakdown (Year-wise)
Over the past few years, Rizwan has consistently delivered, with highlights like:
- 2021: 1,326 runs—making him the most prolific T20I run-scorer that year.
- 2022: 996 runs, again ranking high among global performers.
Overall T20 (All Leagues & T20Is)
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches | 276 |
| Runs | 8,054 |
| Average | 42.61 |
| Strike Rate | 125.29 |
| 50s / 100s | 68 / 2 |
This comprehensive tally reveals Rizwan’s adaptability across formats and conditions. His experience and consistency are clear across PSL, BBL, T20Is, and beyond.
Rizwan’s CPL Debut: Another Step in His T20 League Journey
Interestingly, this will be Rizwan’s first-ever appearance in the CPL. Earlier this year, he featured in the Big Bash League (BBL) with the Melbourne Renegades.
The Pakistan Cricket Board allows centrally contracted players to participate in two overseas T20 leagues within a 12-month window (starting every July). With BBL and CPL now ticked off, Rizwan has completed his quota for the year.
A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the PCB is expected to be a formality, clearing Rizwan’s path to the Caribbean league.
The CPL 2025 season already has a strong Pakistani flavor. The Patriots squad includes rising stars Naseem Shah and Abbas Afridi, while senior pros like Imad Wasim and Mohammad Amir are also playing for other franchises. Salman Irshad, another Pakistani pacer, is also in action in the tournament.
With Rizwan now joining the mix, fans will see even more Pakistani talent showcasing their skills in the Caribbean.
Mohammad Rizwan’s CPL 2025 signing is more than just a cricketing move—it’s a statement of resilience. By quickly moving past the Asia Cup snub, Rizwan has shown that form and opportunities can be rediscovered on different stages.
For the St. Kitts & Nevis Patriots, his arrival could not have come at a better time. With his determination and skill, Rizwan might just script a memorable CPL debut season and remind everyone why he remains one of Pakistan’s most valuable cricketers.
