Saqlain Mushtaq defends Shadab Khan, blames ‘wrong utilisation’ for underperformance

Former Pakistan head coach Saqlain Mushtaq has once again defended Shadab Khan, arguing that the all-rounder’s struggles are the result of tactical mismanagement rather than a lack of ability.

Speaking during a heated discussion, Saqlain said the debate around Shadab ignores a crucial factor — how he is being used.

“There are bowling all-rounders, batting all-rounders, and pure all-rounders,” Saqlain explained. “The players selected were in demand for both batting and bowling.”

Critics in the discussion questioned where the actual bowling performances were, suggesting that the expected impact had not materialised. On which Saqlain started debating what the performances of Mitchell Santner and Axar Patel were in the bowling department? However, Saqlain insisted that during his time as head coach, the selection committee clearly communicated that Shadab was equally capable in both departments.

“When I was head coach, I was told he could do bowling as well as batting. But utilisation should be correct,” he said.

Saqlain pointed towards specific tactical decisions, arguing that overextending bowlers costs the team momentum. He cited examples of third overs being given at questionable moments, including to both Shadab and Naseem, calling them “technical errors.”

According to Saqlain, the team management — led by captain Mohammad Rizwan — expected dual contributions from Shadab. “Both were demanded from him,” he stated, reinforcing that the role assigned required impact with both bat and ball.

The remarks have added fresh fuel to the ongoing debate surrounding Pakistan’s team balance and decision-making. While critics continue to question Shadab’s output, Saqlain’s stance is clear: the problem lies not in the player’s skillset, but in how he is being deployed.