Mohammad Rizwan “spent two nights in the ICU” before T20 World Cup semi-final

Mohammad Rizwan scored 67 in Pakistan’s T20 World Cup semi-final match against Australia, having spent two days in hospital with a chest infection prior to the game

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Pakistan star Mohammad Rizwan spent two nights in hospital with a “severe chest infection” ahead of his side’s T20 World Cup semi-final clash with Australia.

Rizwan was able to recover in time to play in the game and he top scored for Pakistan, making 67.

He also suffered a blow to the head after getting hit on the grille by Mitchell Starc, with his helmet pressing into his face and leaving him with a bruise.

Despite his best efforts, Pakistan were ultimately beaten by five wickets and knocked out of the tournament.

Najeebullah Soomro, Pakistan’s team doctor, revealed after the game: “Mohammad Rizwan developed a severe chest infection on the 9th of November following which he was admitted to the hospital.

“He spent two nights in the ICU recovering. He made an incredible recovery and was deemed fit before the match.

“The decision regarding his health was made by the whole team management. And this was about the morale of the whole team. And therefore, we kept it within the team.

“We can see his great determination and tenacity that shows his spirit of performing for the country. And we can see how he performed today [Thursday].”

Rizwan and veteran Shoaib Malik missed training on Wednesday with flu symptoms and Rizwan was later admitted to hospital.

Speaking after the defeat, Pakistan captain Babar Azam paid tribute to Rizwan, who became the first player to score 1,000 T20I runs in a calendar year during his innings.

“The way he played, it was exceptional,” Babar said. “When I saw him, he was a little bit down, but when I asked him about his health he said ‘no, I will play’.

“And the way he played showed that he’s a team man. And I am very confident about his attitude and his performance.”

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