Mohammad Rizwan Fails to Deliver in CPL, Struggles Despite Big Deal With St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots

Pakistan’s senior wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan, overlooked by the PCB for the upcoming Asia Cup T20, is making headlines in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2025—but not for the right reasons. Signed by St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots reportedly for a deal worth over ₹1.40 crore, Rizwan has failed to make an impact, raising questions about his form and intent.

Poor Start in CPL

In his debut game for the Patriots, Rizwan was dismissed cheaply for just 3 runs. Hopes were high that he would make amends in his second outing against Antigua and Barbuda Falcons on 24 August. Instead, he once again disappointed.

Rizwan’s Struggle at the Crease

Opening the innings, Rizwan consumed 26 balls for 30 runs, the second-most deliveries faced after Evin Lewis. While he got a start, he failed to convert it into a substantial innings that could lift the Patriots beyond a modest 133/9 in 20 overs. His inability to accelerate left the middle and lower order under pressure, eventually costing the team valuable runs.

St. Kitts’ Slump Continues

Chasing 134, Antigua and Barbuda Falcons comfortably crossed the target with 2 balls to spare, winning by 7 wickets. This marked the Patriots’ fourth loss in six games, leaving them at No. 4 in the six-team points table.

The Stakes for Rizwan

The signing of Rizwan was seen as a move to strengthen the side after Afghanistan pacer Fazalhaq Farooqi left for Asia Cup duties. Having once lifted the CPL title in 2021, the Patriots hoped Rizwan’s experience would bolster their campaign. Instead, his sluggish batting has only added to their woes.

While reports peg his CPL contract at around ₹1.40 crore (approximately PKR 4.51 crore), Rizwan has so far been unable to justify the price tag. For a player sidelined by PCB, this CPL stint was expected to double as a statement of form—but instead it has sparked doubts over his consistency.