Indian doctor treated Mohammad Rizwan in ICU; here’s what he said about the Pakistan batter’s ‘astonishing’ recovery

Dubai/Bhubaneswar: Pakistan cricketer Mohammad Rizwan received widespread applause for his brave innings against Australia in the semifinals of the T20 World Cup after spending two nights in ICU.

The Indian doctor, Saheer Sainalabdeen, who treated Rizwan, was astonished at the cricketer’s quick recovery.

“Mujhe Khelna he. Team ke saath rehna he, (I want to play and be with the team),” Rizwan had told doctors at Medeor Hospital where he was treated.

Rizwan did play and against all odds, scored 67 off 52 balls against Australia.

“Rizwan had a strong desire to play for his nation in the crucial knockout match. He was strong, determined, and confident. I am astonished at the pace he had recovered,” said Dr. Saheer.

Rizwan complained of chest tightness and cough a few days before he was hospitalised. The cricketer was also suffering from intermittent fever.

“His pain at the time of admission was 10/10. So, we subjected him for a detailed evaluation to diagnose the condition,” said Dr. Saheer.

After being treated, it was learnt that Rizwan had severe laryngeal infection which led to an esophageal spasm and brochospasm.

“Esophageal spasms can feel like sudden and severe chest pain that lasts for a few minutes to hours,” added Dr. Saheer.

“Rizwan had a severe infection. Recovery and gaining fitness before the semifinal seemed unrealistic. It would have normally taken 5-7 days for anybody to recover,” he said. “He seemed very focused and believed in God. His only thoughts were about the semi-final.”

After spending two days in the ICU, Rizwan responded to the medications and showed incredible recovery.

“Rizwan was firm, courageous, and confident. His physical fitness and endurance level as a sportsman had been key in his recovery. He had been in the ICU for 35 hours,” said Dr. Saheer.

“During sporting events, we have seen players coming up with injuries. But this is the first time a player with a severe infection of this scale had recovered so quickly. When Rizwan hit the big sixes, we were all happy. The power he has regained after the illness has been amazing. His dedication, commitment, and courage are truly commendable,” he added.

Rizwan’s awe-inspiring innings was not enough, however, as Matthew Wade led Australia to a five-wicket victory with six balls to spare. Australia will now face New Zealand in the highly-anticipated T20 World Cup final.