Former Australian Cricketer and Pakistan batting consultant Matthew Hayden, Former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar and even the Australian Cricket Board have heaped praise for Pakistan wicketkeeper and opening batter Mohammed Rizwan for playing the T20 World Cup semi-final against Australia despite going through a “severe chest condition”.

Reportedly, Rizwan was suffering from “mild flu” early on but it is now revealed that the 29-year-old cricketer spent two nights in the Intensive Care Unit of a hospital before the knockout game. He was admitted to ICU in a local in Dubai on Tuesday but was declared fit on the morning of the semifinal. Matthew Hayden said, "This is a warrior. He‘s been brilliant through the campaign. He battled through a severe chest condition and he has great courage."

Akhtar heaped praises on Rizwan for showing great dedication and passion despite facing severe health issues. Shoaib wrote, “Can you imagine this guy played for his country today and gave his best. He was in the hospital last two days. Massive respect Rizwan.” The Australian Cricket Board tweeted, "This is unreal. No wonder Matthew Hayden called him a warrior. Huge respect for Mohammad Rizwan who spent two nights before the #T20WorldCup semi-final in ICU - then top-scored with 67!"

Rizwan has been absolutely brilliant throughout this tournament. He scored 281 runs at an average of 70.25 with three half-centuries to his name in ICC T20 World Cup. Yesterday, Mohammed acquired a 52-ball 67 and batted until the 18th over to help Pakistan put up a promising total of 176 in the losing cause.

This is unreal. No wonder Matthew Hayden called him a warrior. Huge respect for Mohammad Rizwan who spent two nights before the #T20WorldCup semi-final in ICU - then top-scored with 67! https://t.co/YLfJOGFmUO pic.twitter.com/2ztPUsuuWF

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) November 11, 2021

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