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Pakistan wicket-keeper batter Mohammad Rizwan is excited and geared up for his maiden stint with the Melbourne Renegades in Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL) 15.
Speaking in an interview with Cricket Australia, Rizwan shed light on his cricketing career and deemed performing well in Australia crucial for a player’s success.
“If you perform there, the world will know you. I’m very excited to play in the Big Bash,” Rizwan said.
He highlighted difficult conditions down under while recalling his career-defining innings against Australia.
During Pakistan’s 2019 tour, Rizwan scored a gritty 95 at the Gabba against a full-strength Australian attack comprising Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Lyon.
“I love the conditions in Australia because they challenge both batters and bowlers. One innings in Australia changed my career,” the former Pakistan captain recalled.
“After that series, people said, ‘This is Rizwan, the one who performed in Australia,’” he continued.
The 33-year-old praised Australia’s players’ mentality and their passion on the field, which brings a different competition in the game.
“They play with heart, they’re brave, and they stick to what they decide. I love that.
Rizwan will be playing alongside several ace Pakistan players in the upcoming BBL.
“In PSL, when Shaheen comes, he attacks me, and I attack him,” Rizwan said of Shaheen Afridi while mentioning that he has never played his compatriots outside of Pakistan’s domestic cricket.
“We’ve never played against each other outside Pakistan domestic cricket. We are very close, but this is different. They’ll come with energy.”
For those unaware, the 15th edition of the BBL will run from 14 December to 25 January 2026, featuring 44 matches in prime early-evening slots.
Babar is set to make his BBL debut for the Sydney Sixers. Shaheen Afridi was signed by Brisbane Heat as their first overseas platinum pick, and Rizwan joins Melbourne Renegades.
Rauf will represent Melbourne Stars, Shadab Khan was signed by Sydney Thunder, Hasan Ali was drafted by Adelaide Strikers, and Hassan Khan will play for the Renegades.
READ: Pakistan players set to prioritise national duty over BBL 15: reports
