The success continued with an impressive 3-0 sweep against South Africa in their own backyard, followed by a 2-1 series win over Zimbabwe, cementing Rizwan’s strong start as skipper.
However, in early 2025, Pakistan suffered a setback with a tri-series loss at home to New Zealand, followed by the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 where the team failed to progress past the group stage, finishing bottom of a pool featuring New Zealand, India and Bangladesh.
The struggles continued on their next ODI tour to New Zealand, where Pakistan were whitewashed 3-0. Rizwan’s final series as captain came against the West Indies, where despite winning the opening match, Pakistan succumbed to a 2-1 series defeat.