Defending champions of Pakistan Super League (PSL), Multan Sultans, have gained a lot of praise for their commendable cricket under the leadership of wicket-keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan. Former Pakistan cricketer Mushtaq Ahmed has said Rizwan’s leadership qualities are just like former Pakistan captain and Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan.

Talking to Cricket Pakistan in an interview, Sultans’ assistant coach Mushtaq Ahmed addressed their remarkable win-ratio in PSL 7. He said that the credit lies entirely with the Almighty and the players for their efforts.

“One of the most important things when it comes to winning is the leadership quality and Rizwan is a great leader. He keeps everyone in loop and works with the players to execute the game plans,” he said.

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When inquired about whether the change in captaincy was the turning point for Sultans, Ahmed said that there are many more factors at play than just the captaincy.

“There are a lot of factors which come into play and you just don’t focus on one element; for the players to trust their captain, the chemistry between the players and the captain. When players respect you as a captain or as a coach, they will automatically give more value to your opinions and will try to carry out the plans,” he explained.

“I remember when I conceded 70-odd runs in Brisbane and Imran bhai came up to me and backed me for trying my level best. I think it is important to back your players as a leader because it gives you the desire to go out there and prove their belief in you. Rizwan is exactly this way and his leadership is a huge positive,” concluded Mushtaq.

The team has won 10 out 11 matches they have played in PSL 7 and qualified for the Final.