Shahid Afridi reminds Shadab Khan of past support, urges him to let performances do the talking
- Laiba Abbasi
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Former Pakistan cricketer Shahid Afridi has further weighed in on the ongoing debate sparked by all-rounder Shadab Khan's comments, advising the leg-spinner to respond to criticism with performances rather than words.
The controversy began after Shadab remarked in a press conference that former cricketers who frequently criticize the current side were themselves unable to defeat India in a World Cup match, adding that while the stars of the 1990s were individually brilliant, they did not achieve certain milestones as a team. He pointed to Pakistan’s historic 2021 World Cup win over India as a defining moment for the modern side.
Responding in a recent interview, Afridi said that while Shadab is a “very nice boy,” he should remember the support extended to him by senior cricketers during difficult times in his career.
“When we were playing, we also faced a lot of criticism,” Afridi said. “People criticized us heavily, sometimes even crossing limits. But we never responded the way Shadab is responding now.”
Afridi revealed that when Shadab was out of the team, former cricketers publicly backed his return, highlighting his value as an all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball. He noted that Shadab made his comeback after rehabilitation without even playing domestic cricket, yet continues to raise objections.
“You have been given opportunities and support,” Afridi said. “Now the focus should be on delivering consistent performances.”
Addressing Shadab directly, Afridi advised him to concentrate on improving his game rather than engaging in public debates. “Perform the way you did against Namibia. Let your cricket answer the critics,” he said. “Once you end the World Cup on a high note with your performances, we will not utter a word”, he added.
Afridi emphasized that criticism is part and parcel of representing Pakistan at the highest level and urged current players to develop resilience. The exchange has intensified discussions in cricket circles about the relationship between former and current players, with many calling for unity and mutual respect to improve Pakistan cricket.
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