Melbourne Renegades captain Will Sutherland and the team’s coaching staff have apologised to Pakistan batter Mohammad Rizwan over the controversy of his ‘retired out’, but he was not actually.
The incident happened late in the Big Bash League in the Renegades’ innings. Rizwan, who was struggling to find quick runs, was asked to leave the field so another batter could take his place. The decision drew immediate attention from fans and commentators.
Reason behind the ‘retiring out’
Rizwan had scored 26 runs from 23 balls, hitting two fours and a six. The nine-dot balls raised concerns in the team management, as the match moved into a decisive stage. Sutherland signalled from the sidelines for Rizwan to be replaced, a move that quickly became a talking point.
After the match, the Renegades acknowledged that the situation could have been handled better. Sutherland said emotions were running high at the time and expressed regret over how the decision was communicated.
Team officials, including the captain and the coach, later approached Rizwan privately to apologise, according to sources close to the squad.
Social media debate
The decision taken by the team sparked a debate on social media. Fans started supporting Muhmmad Rizwan by saying that the Melbourne Renegades cannot insult such a prestigious player like this. And they have not only retired him but also disrespected him.
Rizwan’s stance on the apology
Rizwan later addressed the issue himself, rejecting rumours that he planned to leave the tournament early. He said reports suggesting he would return home were baseless and confirmed that he will remain committed to the Renegades.
Moreover, Rizwan said decisions made by the captain must be respected, even when difficult. He added that the apology from the captain and coaching staff had helped settle the matter and that his focus remains on performing for the team in the rest of the competition.
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