In a surprising turn of events, star Pakistani wicketkeeper batsman Mohammad Rizwan has been omitted from Pakistan’s squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025.
The news has sent ripples through the cricketing world, but perhaps even more astonishing is what comes next: Rizwan will be donning a different jersey in the near future.
Sources confirm that Rizwan has already signed a contract with the St. Kitts & Nevis Patriots to feature in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2025 marking his debut in the tournament.
This will be a significant milestone for the wicketkeeper batsman, who has long been a mainstay in Pakistan’s limited overs setup.
Replacing Fawad Ahmed: Rizwan’s New Role in CPL
The report suggests that Rizwan will join the Patriots for the remaining matches of CPL 2025, replacing Afghanistan’s Fawad Ahmed, who is set to participate in a tri-series representing Afghanistan.
The official announcement from the team could come within the next 24 hours, but the cricketing fraternity is already abuzz with excitement.
The Patriot’s performance this season has been less than stellar with just one win against three defeats and Rizwan’s addition is expected to bolster their chances considerably. Pakistan’s own Naseem Shah and Abbas Afridi are already part of the squad, but Rizwan’s inclusion brings a new level of experience and skill to the table.
A New Chapter: Rizwan’s League Adventures and Future Restrictions
This move also marks a significant milestone in Rizwan’s burgeoning T20 career. Having previously played in the Big Bash League (BBL) with Melbourne Renegades, Rizwan’s signing with CPL’s Patriots makes it his second foreign league engagement this year.
However, this also means he cannot sign with any other league for the remainder of 2025, as per Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) regulations, which limit players to a maximum of two foreign leagues annually.
Long Absence from International T20s
It’s worth noting that Rizwan has been out of Pakistan’s T20 setup for quite some time. His last appearance for the national team was in December 2024 against South Africa a period marked by quiet resilience and unspoken questions about his future in the national side.
While Rizwan’s exclusion from the Asia Cup squad might be a setback, his journey abroad signals a new chapter filled with opportunities and challenges.
Fans and critics alike will be watching closely as he aims to make a statement in the CPL and beyond, proving once again why he remains one of cricket’s most electrifying talents.
