Played for 6-7 years,…it hurts when ….Saqlain Mushtaq is repeatedly brought up

Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan has said that it is hurtful for him to see his relation with former Pakistan spinner and coach is repeatedly brought up in connection with his performance.

In an interview Shadab addressed the growing narrative that his selection was influenced by his personal ties with Saqlain Mushtaq, whose daughter he married two years ago.

“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.”

“It is especially painful when former cricketers make such remarks because they know what a player goes through,” he added.

“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.