'It should not have happened': Kamran Akmal on Rizwan's retired out dismissal

KARACHI: Former Pakistan cricketer Kamran Akmal expressed disappointment over national wicketkeeper batter Mohammad Rizwan's retired out dismissal in the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL) 2025-26.

The incident occurred following the conclusion of the 18th over of Melbourne Renegades' innings against home side Sydney Thunder when Rizwan, unbeaten on 26 off 23 deliveries, having struck two fours and a six, was called back to the pavilion by captain Will Sutherland to make way for himself to bat.

Fans reacted strongly to the right-handed batter being forced to retire out, calling it an embarrassment, as the video quickly went viral on social media.

Rizwan has struggled with the bat in the ongoing tournament, scoring 167 runs in eight matches at an average of 20.88, without registering a fifty.

Meanwhile, former wicketkeeper batter Akmal, who represented Pakistan in 53 Tests, 157 ODIs and 58 T20Is, acknowledged the discomfort of the Renegades captain's tactical decision but stressed the fast-evolving nature of franchise league cricket and the shortest format.

"Absolutely. I also believe this should not happen; he is our top player and a proven performer. You have to realise how fast these leagues are. Every country is now following the modern-day approach to cricket, so it is vital to develop yourself accordingly," said Akmal during an interview with a local news channel.

"Rizwan has been playing with the same mindset since he started in T20s. In Australia, they view the game through a specific lens. We have seen similar tactical moves in the ILT20 and the IPL," he added.

He further pointed out Rizwan's approach towards the shortest format and his recent struggles, which also saw him go out of favour for the national team's selection.

"I have been saying for three or four years that the way he is playing will make the future very difficult. Modern-day cricket is moving at a rapid pace, and you must adapt. It should not have happened to our best player and the Pakistan captain, but he has, in a sense, given them a reason to make that call."