Shadab Khan made news after Pakistan’s T20 World Cup match against Namibia in Colombo, responding firmly to criticism from former players Shahid Afridi and Mohammad Yousuf. The all-rounder pointed out the team’s success in a significant win over India during the 2021 T20 World Cup in Dubai, where they achieved a ten-wicket victory led by Babar Azam—something the previous generation did not accomplish.
Shadab faced backlash from Mohammad Amir, Basit Ali, Ahmed Shehzad, and Shoaib Malik. Reports indicate that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has cautioned him to avoid making controversial statements.
According to Telecom Asia Sport, PCB officials have officially warned Shadab, stressing that such comments will not be tolerated going forward.
“Naveed Cheema was called to tell Shadab that his remarks during Wednesday night’s press conference crossed the line,” said a PCB source.
“Shadab must recognize that all former cricketers, including his father-in-law Saqlain Mushtaq, are respected legends of Pakistan. He should avoid using such language.”
In light of Shadab’s comments, the Pakistan team has been advised to limit their statements to T20 World Cup matters, with the PCB indicating possible consequences for any inappropriate remarks.
Saqlain Mushtaq, who is also Shadab Khan’s father-in-law, expressed his discontent with the comments, labeling them ‘unnecessary’ and inappropriate for the context.
“Those remarks were unnecessary, and many players have played alongside me. While it’s true that I never won an ICC trophy either, we’ve achieved many significant victories for Pakistan in Tests and ODIs,” Saqlain told Telecom Asia Sport.
Pakistan’s management is taking a cautious approach regarding player statements. Before the Namibia match, media officials stepped in when mystery spinner Usman Tariq was asked about his late entry in the game against India, where he bowled in the 11th over.
“Tariq won’t be commenting on this, as head coach Mike Hesson has already addressed the issue following the India match,” said media manager Naeem Gillani.
