DUBAI: Pakistan team’s interim head coach Saqlain Mushtaq gave huge respect to wicket-keeper batter Mohammad Rizwan who played T20 World Cup 2021’s semi-final after spending two nights in ICU for chest infection treatment. 

While talking to the media, Saqlain said Rizwan showed great courage in playing the important game for Pakistan despite severe illness.

“I will play even if I lose my life. It will be an honor for me to play,” Saqlain shared Rizwan’s words before the match.

“Rizwan is an inspiration for all the players. His determination and courage boosted our confidence and we allowed him to play the match,” the head coach said.

Speaking about Hasan Ali, Saqlain said he is a fighter, and dropped catches are part of the game. “Such phases come in players’ life. They have to deal with it. Hasan is a fighter and an important player for us. He was sad last night but now he is okay,” Saqlain added.

Saqlain once again felt proud of his boys’ performance in the mega event and hopes that they will continue such performance in the future.

Pakistan remained unbeaten in the group stage of the extravaganza. The Green Shirts also beat their arch-rivals India for the first time in any World Cup that too by 10 wickets. They lost to Australia by five wickets in the semi-final.

READ: Pakistanis take supportive stance for Hasan Ali