'Mohammad Rizwan spent two days in ICU before semi-final': Pakistan team doctor

Pakistan might have lost the semifinal match to Australia by five wickets, but wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan managed to win hearts by displaying fight, grit, and determination. Before the high-octane clash versus Australia, Rizwan suffered flu and was in doubt to play. After clearing COVID-19 tests and getting the approval by Pakistan team doctor Najeeb Somroo, the Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter stepped on the park.

After the match, Somroo revealed Rizwan was in ICU for two days. “Mohammad Rizwan developed a severe chest infection on the 9th of November after which he was admitted to the hospital. He spent two nights in the ICU recovering. He made an incredible recovery and was deemed fit before the match,” said Somroo.

Rizwan put all those health issues back to rest and scored a fighting 67 off just 52 balls. He helped Pakistan reach a competitive total of 176. Somroo said Rizwan showed great determination and character during the match.

"We can see his great determination and tenacity that shows his spirit of performing for the country. And we can see how he performed today," the doctor added.

Somroo further revealed the decision of playing Rizwan in the semifinal against Australia was made by the entire team management. "The decision regarding and around his health was made by the whole team management. And this was regarding the morale of the whole team. And therefore we kept it within the team."

Rizwan’s gritty innings of 67 went in vain as Matthew Wade and Marcus Stoinis took Australia home with five wickets in hand.