Tensions flared up on a show after Pakistan’s defeat against England in the T20 World Cup with a heated debate erupting on the performance of the all-rounder Shadab Khan.
The discussion focused on debate about his recent bowling form and his general role in the national team.
The programme witnessed the arguing of former all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez and former spinner Saqlain Mushtaq, father-in-law of Shadab Khan, who raised their voices.
Hafeez felt that the confusion over the primary role of Shadab Khan is having an impact on the balance of the team.
He said there should be clarity whether Shadab is playing more as a batting all-rounder or as a bowling all-rounder.
According to him, performance evaluation is dependent on clearly defined responsibilities. Without a fixed role, players may have a difficult time meeting these expectations; team strategy will then become inconsistent.
On the other hand, Saqlain Mushtaq strongly defended Shadab Khan. He stressed that Shadab has made match-winning performances with the bat on a number of occasions.
Saqlain’s argument for his being restricted to only a bowling all-rounder is that his contributions and general potential are being overlooked.
In his opinion, Shadab adds value in many aspects and his abilities should not be seen as limited.
Responding to this, Hafeez stated his own experience as an example. He described how throughout his playing career captains made their point that each all-rounder has to carry out primary duties first.
He said that if he was not scoring runs, his bowling alone would not be good enough to warrant his selection.
Through this comparison, he emphasised that there was a need for comprehension of roles and consistency on the international field.
It is also important to note that Saqlain Mushtaq is Shadab Khan’s father-in-law.
The debate echoed wider issues of role definition and accountability against the nature of the national team set up.
Also read: “Perform first, speak later”: Afridi’s strong message to Shadab Khan
