During a post-match conversation with commentators after receiving the Player of the Match award, he lightened the mood with a humorous response that left fans in splits.
In a high-scoring thriller, Sri Lanka batted first, amassing a formidable total of 344/9. Kusal Mendis (122 off 77) and Sadeera Samarawickrama (108 off 89) smashed brilliant centuries for their team.
In reply, Rizwan (131 not out off 121) and Abdullah Shafique (113 off 103) put on a remarkable partnership that enabled Pakistan to chase down the target, finishing at 345/4 in just 48.2 overs. This historic chase now stands as the highest successful run chase in World Cup history.
“Sometimes it’s cramps, sometimes it’s my acting”: Rizwan
What made Rizwan’s heroic performance even more impressive was the fact that he not only kept wickets for the entire 50 overs in the scorching afternoon heat but also batted for over 40 overs. Throughout the chase, he battled cramps on several occasions but continued to fight on, ultimately leading his team to a historic victory.
Also READ: CWC 2023 – Cricketing world erupts as Pakistan beat Sri Lanka to pull off a highest run-chase in World Cup history
After the match, cricket-turned-commentator Simon Doull inquired Rizwan about his struggles with the cramps. To this, Rizwan delivered a witty response, saying, “Sometimes it’s cramps, sometimes it’s my acting.”
Here’s the video:
Hahasometimes cramp sometimes acting ..
Some likes for funny rizwan.#SLvsPAK pic.twitter.com/9ajiuglObL
— Cric247 (@ArafRayees) October 10, 2023
Babar Azam lauds Rizwan and Abdullah Shafique
Like many others, Pakistan’s captain Babar Azam also praised the star wicketkeeper-batter for his exceptional performance. Azam emphasized the vital role Rizwan played in building partnerships and exerting pressure on the Sri Lankan team.
“I think Rizwan, the way he played… He built the partnership and put pressure on the Sri Lanka team. We finished well with our fast bowlers,” said Azam.
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Azam even acknowledged the significant contribution made by opener Abdullah Shafique and the middle-order batters, expressing confidence in his team’s abilities. Pakistan’s captain, Azam, concluded by saying, “First World Cup for Shafique and he is in good nick I decided to play him. I think the way Rizwan and he played helped us with the partnership. Good for us, the middle order has stepped up and just believe in ourselves.”
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