Ahmed Shehzad slams Aqib Javed over “Favoritism,” questions exclusion of key players

Pakistan cricketer Ahmed Shehzad has launched a strong criticism of the Pakistan team’s selection process, accusing the panel led by Aaqib Javed of favoritism and unfair decisions that are harming the future of Pakistan cricket.

In his remarks, Shehzad questioned several recent selection calls, particularly the omission of top players like Babar Azam and Saim Ayub from the ODI squad. According to Shehzad, leaving out players of such quality raises serious concerns about the selection committee’s priorities.

“The selection committee’s sick favoritism mindset is costing Pakistan,” Shehzad said while addressing the issue. “How can you drop Babar Azam and Saim Ayub from ODIs?”

Shehzad also highlighted that several deserving players continue to be overlooked despite strong performances. He specifically mentioned Hassan Nawaz and Mohammad Wasim Jr. as examples of players who, in his view, have not been given fair opportunities.

“Deserving players like Hassan Nawaz are also not picked, while Wasim Jr has been consistently ignored,” Shehzad added.

The former Pakistan opener further warned that such decisions could have long-term consequences for the country’s cricket structure. According to him, talented players may begin looking for opportunities elsewhere if they feel their performances are not being recognized.

“Because of this injustice, talented players are leaving for teams like the United Arab Emirates national cricket team and the United States national cricket team,” Shehzad claimed. “For God’s sake, stop this injustice.”

Shehzad’s remarks add to the growing criticism surrounding Pakistan’s selection policies in recent months, with several former players and analysts questioning the team’s constant changes and lack of clarity in building a stable squad for the future.