Rizwan Focuses on PSL After Pakistan’s Series Whitewash Against New Zealand

April 5, 2025: Pakistan suffered their seventh consecutive One Day International (ODI) loss in 2025, as they were defeated 3-0 in the three-match series against New Zealand. The third ODI, which was reduced to 42 overs per side due to a wet outfield, saw Pakistan chasing a target of 265 but ultimately falling short, being bowled out for 221. The 43-run loss sealed a disappointing series for the visitors.

After the defeat, Pakistan’s captain, Mohammad Rizwan, spoke about leaving the disappointments of the series behind and looking forward to the Pakistan Super League (PSL), which will begin on April 11. He expressed hope that the PSL would provide an opportunity for the team to bounce back and bring joy to the fans.

“After the Champions Trophy and this series, we’ll leave the past behind. PSL is a big tournament for us, and hopefully, we’ll give the people something to cheer,” Rizwan said during the post-match presentation.

Rizwan also lauded New Zealand for their all-round performance in the series, crediting the hosts for their clinical displays in all three departments of the game. Rizwan acknowledged the difficulty of playing in New Zealand conditions, which were challenging for Pakistan, but also praised his teammate, Babar Azam, for his consistent performances with the bat. Babar scored 50 runs in the third ODI and had two half-centuries in the series.

“Disappointing series for us. Babar played well, two fifties in this series. I give credit to New Zealand in all three departments. It’s difficult conditions for us here but they played well in Asian conditions as well,” Rizwan said.

When asked about their performance in the third ODI, Rizwan reiterated that New Zealand had won the key moments of the game.

“If you lose, you can’t say like that. New Zealand won the key moments,” he added.

Rizwan, who had a relatively underwhelming series with the bat, managed to score 37 runs off 32 balls in the third ODI. His knock included two fours and a six before being dismissed by New Zealand pacer Jacob Duffy in the 33rd over. At the time of his departure, Pakistan was 169/5 in their chase, but they were eventually bowled out for 221.

The 32-year-old wicketkeeper-batter was unable to find form during the series, managing just 72 runs in three innings. He had a start in the first ODI, scoring 30 runs, but fell for a single-digit score in the second match.

As Pakistan now looks to regroup and focus on the PSL, Rizwan and his team will hope that the upcoming tournament will provide a platform for redemption and a fresh start in the limited-overs format.