While some decisions are beyond my control, we have discussed Fakhar Zaman's potential return: Mohammad Rizwan

Mohammad Rizwan has his hands full after taking up the role of Pakistan's captaincy in the white-ball format. Apart from having to start his leadership tenure with a challenging limited-overs tour of Australia next month, the wicketkeeper-batter is busy handling questions regarding Fakhar Zaman's controversial snub from the central contracts list.

Fakhar was excluded from the contract list on Sunday, October 27, just weeks after he posted a tweet slamming the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for the way they dropped Babar Azam from the second Test against England. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi had claimed that the decision to leave out Fakhar was not only based on his tweet but also his failure in fitness tests.

Also Read: 'Even a vegetable seller will say he's the best opener' - Basit Ali after Fakhar Zaman's central contract snub

Rizwan acknowledged Fakhar's batting talent and the ability to make significant contributions in all conditions. The 32-year-old hoped that the situation surrounding the southpaw will be resolved soon.

“There’s no question about Fakhar’s impact, he is an influential player who can change the game single-handedly on any conditions. While some decisions are beyond my control, we have discussed his potential return and hope the matter will soon be resolved," Rizwan was quoted as saying by India Today.

Whoever is chosen as head coach, we will work together to achieve our goals: Rizwan

Pakistan appointed Jason Gillespie as the white-ball coach for the impending tour of Australia. The former Aussie seamer has been the head coach of the red-ball team since April. PCB decided to increase his responsibility after Gary Kirsten relinquished the role of Pakistan's white-ball coach following a six-month stint. The South African spearheaded the team during a disastrous T20 World Cup 2024 campaign, where the Men in Green bowed out in the first round.

Also Read: 'He did not want Rizwan as captain' - Basit Ali reveals reason behind Gary Kirsten's exit as white-ball coach

When asked about Pakistan's search for a new head coach for the white-ball squad, Rizwan asserted that the team is ready to work with whoever takes on the role.

“When you’re playing for country then you’re beyond individuals. Our focus is always on playing for Pakistan, not on individual positions. Whoever is chosen as head coach, we will work together to achieve our goals," the Peshawar-born stated.