Indian umpire Anil Chaudhary has openly criticized Pakistani wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan for his frequent and aggressive appeals during matches. The comments were made during Umpire Anil Chaudhary’s recent appearance on the "2 Sloggers" podcast on YouTube, where he shared his experience with Rizwan during the ACC Men’s Asia Cup 2023.
Umpire Anil Chaudhary revealed that Rizwan's continuous appeals on almost every ball were putting unnecessary pressure on the umpires. He mentioned that he had to discuss the issue with his fellow on-field umpire.
"I encountered him [Mohammad Rizwan] in last year’s Asia Cup. He keeps shouting on every ball. I even notified the other umpire about what Rizwan was doing,” Umpire Anil Chaudhary said. He further added that there was a moment when the other umpire almost succumbed to one of Rizwan's appeals but reconsidered after recalling Umpire Anil Chaudhary’s warning. Umpire Anil Chaudhary also took a jab at Rizwan, saying, "Isn’t he the one who puts on something like lipstick? He keeps jumping like a pigeon."
Umpire Anil Chaudhary also issued a caution to all wicketkeepers, urging them to avoid making false appeals as experienced umpires can easily recognize such tactics.
“But the good umpires are wise enough to judge such acts. When the umpires are good, such keepers are losers,” he stated. He warned that wicketkeepers engaging in such behavior might find themselves at a disadvantage even when making a genuine appeal.
“It’s a technology-driven era where you can watch everything on the screen. Why make fun of yourself with such acts?” Umpire Anil Chaudhary concluded.