Rizwan to Play Full CPL Season After Missing Pakistan Asia Cup Squad

Pakistan’s star wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan is all set to make his debut in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2025, as he has officially signed a deal with St Kitts and Nevis Patriots. This marks the first time Rizwan will feature in the popular T20 league, and he is expected to represent the team for the remainder of the current season.

The signing comes as Rizwan replaces Afghanistan pacer Fazalhaq Farooqi, who has been called back to national duty. Farooqi is part of Afghanistan’s squad for their upcoming tri-series against Pakistan and the UAE, which will take place in the Emirates later this month. With his departure, the Patriots looked for a reliable and experienced replacement, and Rizwan’s availability provided the perfect solution.

Rizwan’s participation was made possible because he was left out of Pakistan’s squad for both the UAE tri-series and the Asia Cup 2025. While this decision from selectors surprised some fans, it has opened the door for him to feature in the CPL without any scheduling conflicts. If everything goes smoothly, Rizwan could make his CPL debut as early as tomorrow, when the Patriots face the Barbados Royals in a crucial encounter.

Although Rizwan’s role in international T20 matches has decreased recently, his reputation in franchise cricket continues to grow. Earlier in 2025, he signed with the Melbourne Renegades in Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL). With the CPL stint, Rizwan will now complete his quota of two overseas leagues, which is the maximum allowed for centrally contracted Pakistan players within a 12-month period, according to PCB rules.

For the Patriots, Rizwan’s arrival could not have come at a better time. The two-time CPL champions started their campaign with a win but then slipped badly, losing three matches in a row. They currently sit at fourth place on the points table, and their management is hoping that Rizwan’s consistency with the bat and experience under pressure can help turn things around.

The 33-year-old will also reunite with familiar faces in the Patriots’ dressing room. Pakistan’s pace sensations Naseem Shah and Abbas Afridi are already part of the squad, which means the team will have a strong Pakistani presence. This chemistry could benefit the Patriots as they look to regain momentum and push for a playoff spot.

For Rizwan personally, this CPL debut is more than just another franchise contract. Over the last five years, he has been regarded as Pakistan’s most reliable T20 batter, known for his calmness, determination, and ability to anchor an innings. Playing in the Caribbean offers him the chance to adapt to new conditions, face different bowlers, and add to his growing international franchise experience. At the same time, it is also an opportunity to send a message back home that he still has plenty to offer Pakistan cricket, especially at a time when selectors have opted for other players.

If Rizwan performs well, not only could he revive the Patriots’ season, but he might also strengthen his case for a national comeback in Pakistan’s T20 setup. Fans will be eager to see how one of their most dependable cricketers fares in the CPL, as he takes another step in his already remarkable career.

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