Veteran Pakistan batsman Ahmed Shehzad has strongly criticized all-rounder Shadab Khan for his recent remarks against the former national team player. Pakistan sparked a backlash after losing to India in the T20 World Cup, a result that sparked widespread criticism of the Salman Ali Agha-led side.
Responding to former cricketers’ doubts about the team’s performance, Shadab pointed out that he was at least part of the Pakistan team that beat India in an International Cricket Federation event – something he believed the previous generation was unable to do. Shehzad was not happy with this statement.
Speaking in a televised debate, Shehzad launched a blistering attack, questioning Shadab’s status in the national team and accusing him of benefiting from undue support. He claimed that the all-rounder had not done enough in domestic cricket to justify his selection and hinted at preferential treatment.
“First of all, you came in through the back door (Ek to aap chor raastey se aaye ho). You were neither a performer nor a regular in domestic cricket, but you were supported even though you were injured and didn’t even go into rehab, but if that’s not favoritism, that’s it. “Well I don’t know what it is. When you compare yourself to the teams of the 90s? They had problems at the World Cup but they were so much better than you; just because two former players criticize the team, you suddenly forget the support they gave you,” Shehzad said.
The debate also featured former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir and former wicketkeeper Rashid Latif, both of whom were involved in the controversy.
Aamir expressed disappointment with Shadab’s timing and said it was inappropriate to make such remarks during an ongoing tour.
“If you are on tour, you will be criticized. So, you have no right to say such things while touring. Even though we have been criticized during tours in the past, my focus is to silence those critics with my performances. So, if you are not performing, you should stay quiet,” Aamir pointed out.
Meanwhile, Latif gave a pointed response of his own.
“Shadab should be praised for having the courage to say what he said. Everyone has a voice, so it doesn’t matter,” Latif added in a sarcastic tone.
