The continuing Big Bash League has once again become the subject of criticism, this time by odd on-field action during a recent match between the Melbourne Renegades and the Sydney Thunder. A dubious retirement by Pakistani cricketer Mohammad Rizwan during the match has provoked great outrage, notably among fans and former cricketers at home.
Rizwan, representing the Renegades, was asked to retire during a high-pressure situation, a decision that rapidly became a source of criticism.
Many supporters saw the move as humiliating, with calls for Pakistan’s batter to exit the tournament midway.
Meanwhile, Kamran Akmal, a former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman, joined the conversation. Akmal acknowledged the discomfort, but also provided a larger perspective on the evolution of modern T20 cricket. However, Akmal emphasised that franchise leagues follow a distinct tactical framework, with teams frequently prioritising momentum and scoring rate over individual notoriety.
“Absolutely. I also believe this should not happen; he is our top player and a proven performer. You have to realize how fast these leagues are. Every country is now following the modern-day approach to cricket, so it is vital to develop yourself accordingly. Rizwan has been playing with the same mindset since he started in T20s. In Australia, they view the game through a specific lens. We have seen similar tactical moves in the ILT20 and the IPL,” he told via GTV Sports.
Kamran Akmal further pointed out that Rizwan’s struggles in the shortest format have been evident for some time. After being left out of Pakistan’s recent T20 plans, the BBL stint was considered an opportunity for the star cricketer to rediscover form, but the episode instead reignited questions around his approach in the modern-day format.
“I have been saying for three or four years that the way he is playing will make the future very difficult. Modern-day cricket is moving at a rapid pace, and you must adapt. It should not have happened to our best player and the Pakistan captain, but he has, in a sense, given them a reason to make that call,” Akmal remarked.
Despite the tactical decision, the retire-out had little impact on the outcome. Melbourne Renegades posted 170 before rain reduced the chase to 140. A four-wicket haul from Gurinder Sandhu proved insufficient as Sydney Thunder chased down the revised target with four balls to spare, sealing a four-wicket win at the Sydney Showground Stadium.
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