Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan has opened up about the continuous chatter surrounding his relationship with former head coach and current PCB mentor Saqlain Mushtaq.
In a candid interview with a local news platform, Shadab addressed the growing narrative that his selection was influenced by his personal ties with Saqlain Mushtaq, whose daughter he married two years ago.
Setting the record straight, Shadab reminded critics of his contributions to Pakistan cricket long before his marriage.
“I’ve been playing for the national team for the past 6-7 years,” he said. “I’ve had some good performances during that time. I got married two years ago, but it hurts when the connection with Saqlain Mushtaq is repeatedly brought up.”
The leg-spinner reserved special criticism for former cricketers who, he believes, should know better.
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“It is especially painful when former cricketers make such remarks because they know what a player goes through,” he added.
Shadab Khan also touched on the invisible struggles players face behind the scenes and how public opinion often hinges solely on results.
“I’ve previously mentioned that a lot of work happens behind the scenes that isn’t visible to the public. But in our country, results are all that matters. We are working hard for them,” he explained.
Speaking about Saqlain Mushtaq’s influence, Shadab acknowledged his father-in-law’s role in helping him refine his bowling but insisted the focus has always been on cricketing growth — not personal connections.
“Saqlain Mushtaq is working with me to improve my bowling. I am hopeful that with his guidance, good results will follow, and there will be consistency in my performances,” Shadab concluded.
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