'It hurts when the connection with Saqlain Mushtaq is repeatedly brought up: Shadab Khan

Pakistan spin-bowling all-rounder Shadab Khan has opened up on the rumors of getting favors from his father-in-law and legendary off-spinner Saqlain Mushtaq to stay in the Pakistan team. The T20I vice captain has shut down the critics while talking about his career and what he has achieved so far for the team.

There was a moment last season where it seemed like Shadab Khan would not be back in the Pakistan team as he was ignored by the selectors in the 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy. However, he went on to make a comeback in the squad during the T20I series against New Zealand and was even appointed as the vice captain. This led to rumors that the reason Shadab has got this push is due to his connection with legendary spin bowler and former coach Saqlain Mushtaq, while talking to the media in Rawalpindi.

“It is frustrating and disappointing to hear such things because my career is nearly seven years long. I have given some good performances since debuting for Pakistan. Yes, I am learning a lot from Saqlain Mushtaq because of his strong cricket coaching background. But it does not mean he is doing me favours,” Shadab said.

“It hurts when the connection with Saqlain Mushtaq is repeatedly brought up. I have been trying to improve my bowling by working with my father-in-law because I consider myself more beneficial to the team as a bowler than a batter,” Shadab added.

Shadab set to defend PSL title

Shadab will next be seen in the PSL, where he will be leading Islamabad United in the upcoming tournament. Shadab had led the side to their third title and was the Player of the tournament as well for his all-round performance, making the franchise the most successful in the tournament.

Shadab scored 305 runs and took 14 wickets in the last season and will be looking to do a repeat in the upcoming tournament and make sure the team goes on to become the second team after Lahore Qalandars to defend their PSL title.