Mohammad Rizwan was a standout performer for Pakistan in the 20-20 World Cup 2021. However, Rizwan was hospitalised prior to the semi-final game against Australia owing to a serious chest infection. He also had trouble breathing throughout his two days in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
The team doctor, Dr Najeebullah, has now revealed that Rizwan had no choice but to be given a prohibited substance. He stated that athletes are not permitted to take such medication but Cricket’s governing body granted the required approvals for Rizwan’s speedy recovery.
While speaking to Mohammad Rizwan in an interview, Dr Najeebullah said, “You were unable to breathe, and I had to get permission from the International Cricket Council to inject that medicine to help you recover. Usually, it is prohibited for the athletes but since there was no other option available, we had to take permission from the ICC to inject that medicine.”
Rizwan was being treated at Medeor Hospital by Saheer Sainalabdeen, a Specialist Pulmonologist. Rizwan was set to miss the semifinal due to his illness but he recovered miraculously to feature in the game, leaving the doctor shocked. “Rizwan had a strong desire to play for his nation in the crucial knockout match. He was strong, determined and confident. I am astonished at the pace he had recovered. His pain at the time of admission was 10/10. So, we subjected him for a detailed evaluation to diagnose the condition,” CricTracker quoted him saying.
Returning to the semi-final game against Australia, Mohammad Rizwan was the highest run-scorer for Pakistan. He scored 67 runs off 52 balls. Despite his efforts, Australia won the match by five wickets. The team then went on to beat New Zealand in the final to win their maiden 20-20 World Cup.
Rizwan scored 281 runs at an average of 70.25 in six matches in the competition. Babar Azam, his opening partner and team captain, also looked impressive in the competition. In six matches, Babar scored 303 runs at an average of 60.6.
