Shadab Khan, an all-rounder for Pakistan, has openly criticized former legends of the country following Pakistan’s defeat to India in the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. His comments have sparked reactions from former players and experts.
Some past Pakistan cricketers questioned the inclusion of senior players like Babar Azam, Shadab Khan, and Shaheen Afridi in the T20I team, suggesting that changes were needed after the loss to India.
In response, Shadab defended himself and his team, stating that while criticism is common, it’s crucial to recognize that this team achieved milestones that previous teams could not.
Shadab stated:
“Criticism is beyond our control. Former cricketers have their views. They were great, but they couldn’t achieve what we have. We beat India in a World Cup. Criticism has always been part of Cricket.”
Shadab was alluding to Pakistan’s historic win over India in the 2021 T20 World Cup, marking their only World Cup victory against India so far.
In contrast, former cricketer Basit Ali criticized Shadab’s comments, defending the legendary players and asserting that Shadab should respect those who have contributed significantly to Pakistan’s cricket success.
Basit specifically defended Saqlain Mushtaq, who is also Shadab’s father-in-law and one of Pakistan’s finest spin bowlers.
He remarked:
“Wasn’t Saqlain a match-winner?” Basit Ali asked on a Pakistani TV show alongside Shoaib Malik. “A bowler like Saqlain makes players like Shadab look small. He’s one of a kind. There aren’t many like him. I am telling you this.”
Basit also emphasized that players in the 1990s and early 2000s secured their spots through merit, not favoritism. He questioned Shadab’s performances in high-pressure matches.
“In your generation, players didn’t get promoted through recommendations. They worked hard to join the team. If a player performed well, they earned their spot. Now, you have players who underperform and still get picked.”
“When young players join the team, they’re pushed up the order. If Saqlain or Waqar were around, I wonder how they would handle it.”
Basit Also Shared a Story About the England Tour
He recounted that during a tour to England, Shadab spent excessive time on his mobile phone.
“Let me share something that nobody knows. I took a team to England, and he was always on his phone. I had to take their phones from them. I told him he wouldn’t use his mobile.”
Although Basit did not explain why he took away the phones, his remarks indicated his frustration.
