Pakistan’s wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan was surprisingly forced to retire out during the 33rd match of the 2025/26 Big Bash League (BBL 15) between the Melbourne Renegades and Sydney Thunder.
The incident occurred on the last ball of the 18th over of the Renegades’ innings, with Rizwan walking off the field despite showing no signs of injury.
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Melbourne Renegades captain Will Sutherland called Mohammad Rizwan back, coming in his place.
Many fans were taken aback, as the decision appeared tactical rather than health-related.
Before retiring, Rizwan had scored 26 runs off 23 balls, including two fours and his only six of the tournament so far.
The move seemed aimed at bringing in a more aggressive batter for the final overs.
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However, the strategy quickly backfired.
Sutherland faced just one delivery and was run out in a chaotic moment.
After defending a wide yorker, the ball touched Daniel Sams’ fingertips before hitting the stumps at Sutherland’s end.
He was well short of his crease and had to leave the field immediately.
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The Melbourne Renegades completed their innings at 170 for 8, leaving fans debating the unusual decision to retire Rizwan out.
