Former Australian captain Aaron Finch has praised Pakistan wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan for the energy and knowledge he brings to the Big Bash League (BBL), saying his influence goes well beyond his on-field talent.
Speaking on a recent podcast, Finch highlighted Rizwan’s constant chatter behind the stumps, calling it a key part of his game.
“Mohammad Rizwan never shuts up behind the stumps, but seriously talented,” Finch said, expressing clear admiration.
Finch revealed that young Australian batter Jake Fraser-McGurk has already benefited from Rizwan’s presence, despite spending only a few days with him. Finch said Fraser-McGurk spoke about the lessons he had learned from Rizwan during a recent shoot they were both attending.
Rizwan is currently in Australia taking part in the BBL. Finch stressed that the true value of international players lies in the experience and knowledge they pass on to Australia’s emerging cricketers.
“It’s incredible what it means, not for the players to be involved themselves, but for our players to learn as much as they can,” Finch said.
The former Australian captain also praised the overall quality of Pakistani players featuring in this year’s competition, calling them global stars rather than just national representatives.
“They’re not just Pakistan players, they’re Pakistan superstars, they’re global superstars. That’s so important to our game because they’re such great players,” Finch said.
He added that the presence of international players is vital for the growth of the sport, emphasizing how important it is for their knowledge to be shared with local talent.
A total of seven Pakistani players are participating in the BBL this season. Along with Rizwan and Babar, the list includes Shaheen Shah Afridi (Brisbane Heat), Haris Rauf (Melbourne Stars), Shadab Khan (Sydney Thunder), Hasan Ali (Adelaide Strikers), and Usama Mir (Melbourne Renegades).
