Mohammad Rizwan likely to be dropped for Australia ODI series

Mohammad Rizwan may be dropped from Pakistan squad. File photo

| Published May, 21 2026 | Updated

ISLAMABAD (Web Desk): Mohammad Rizwan may be dropped from Pakistan squad for Australia ODI series as selectors consider major changes before the tour.

Pakistan’s selection committee is reportedly considering excluding wicket-keeper batter Mohammad Rizwan from the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia.

According to reports, the decision follows discussions between head coach Mike Hesson and Captain Shaheen Shah Afridi. Hesson is said to be not in favor of including Rizwan in the ODI squad after the T20 series.

Rizwan has played 103 ODIs for Pakistan and scored 2,979 runs at an average of 40.08. His record includes four centuries and 19 half-centuries. Behind the stumps, he has taken 113 catches and completed seven stumpings.

In recent performances, Rizwan scored 58 runs in the three-match ODI series against Bangladesh in March 2026. For the Australia series, selectors are considering Ghazi Ghouri along with either Usman Khan or Mirza Saad Baig as possible wicket-keeping options.

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The Australian team is scheduled to arrive in Islamabad on May 23 for the upcoming ODI series. This potential change has created discussion among cricket fans, as Rizwan is considered one of Pakistan’s most experienced wicket-keeper batters.

Team management is expected to make final decisions as soon as preparations for the high-profile series continue. Analysts say the selection debate shows Pakistan is testing new combinations ahead of tough international challenges.