MELBOURNE: The management of the Melbourne Renegades has formally apologized to Pakistani cricketer Mohammad Rizwan for the controversial decision to “retire him out” during a recent Big Bash League (BBL) match, a move that sparked significant criticism from fans and pundits alike.
According to team sources, the apology was delivered directly by captain Will Sutherland and the team’s coach. The incident occurred when the Renegades’ strategic move to send Rizwan back to the pavilion—despite him being not out—to accelerate the run rate backfired, drawing widespread ire on social media. Critics lambasted the decision, arguing it disrespected a player of Rizwan’s international calibre.
In the apology, Captain Sutherland reportedly acknowledged the error in judgment during a critical phase of the match. “The match was in a thrilling phase. I am ashamed of my behavior,” Sutherland stated, according to insiders. He further extended respect to Rizwan, affirming, “You are a good player and people like you.”
Sources indicate that Rizwan had expressed his displeasure with the team management following the event, feeling the public nature of the tactical move was unnecessary and demoralizing. The “retired out” strategy, while legal within cricket’s rules, is rare in T20 leagues and is often seen as a severe slight against the batsman’s ability to finish an innings.
The Renegades’ public relations stumble highlights the delicate balance teams must strike between aggressive tactics and player management. The apology aims to mend fences with the esteemed wicketkeeper-batter, who remains a key overseas asset for the franchise. The team hopes to move past the controversy and focus on the remainder of the BBL season, with Rizwan’s integration and morale now being a clear priority.
