Mohammad Rizwan is a polarizing figure in Pakistan cricket, some people rate him among the best wicketkeeper-batter the country has ever produced, while some think he should not be part of the team at all.
He recently showed his batting prowess during the first Test against Bangladesh, scoring an unbeaten 171 in the first innings, followed by a gutsy 51 in the second innings. Although Pakistan suffered a shameful defeat, Rizwan earned praise for his batting.
But, while his cricketing achievements are remarkable, Rizwan is equally known for his quirky on-field behaviour.
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The “Pigeon” Behind the Stumps
Rizwan’s antics have become a talking point in cricketing circles. Whether it’s his exaggerated appeals or his habit of leaping around behind the stumps, Mohammad Rizwan has a knack for getting under the umpires’ skin.
Indian umpire Anil Chaudhary recently shared a light-hearted anecdote that perfectly captures Rizwan’s energetic style. During a chat on the “2 Sloggers” podcast on YouTube, Chaudhary likened Rizwan to a pigeon, hopping around with his constant appeals.
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Recalling an experience from the Asia Cup 2023, the veteran umpire revealed how Rizwan’s relentless appealing kept the officials on their toes. “He appeals on everything,” Chaudhary remarked, laughing as he remembered how Rizwan’s antics reminded him of a pigeon fluttering about.
“There was a moment when the other umpire was close to obliging to his appeal but he suddenly recalled my words and turned it down. Isn’t he the one who puts something like a lipstick? He keeps jumping like a pigeon,” he added, with a grin.
A Word of Caution for the Keepers
Choudhary also cautioned all the wicketkeepers to refrain from making false appeals, as seasoned umpires are adept at identifying such tactics aimed at pressuring them.
“If the umpire is good, he can outsmart the wicketkeepers,” he said. “If you appeal for no reason, you won’t even get the right calls,” Chaudhary added, making it clear that experience counts when it comes to standing behind the stumps.
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