New Delhi: Former Pakistan cricket legend Saqlain Mushtaq appeared on a live show defending his son-in-law Shadab Khan after a disappointing performance against England in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. The discussion quickly escalated into a heated debate with fellow ex-player Mohammad Hafeez, sparking a viral moment on social media.
Disappointing Display Against England
In Pakistan’s thrilling Super 8 match on February 24 at Pallekele, England defeated Pakistan by two wickets, securing their place in the semi-finals. Pakistan’s qualification now depends entirely on the results of other matches.
Shadab Khan, the experienced all-rounder, had an underwhelming outing. He scored just 23 runs with the bat and conceded 31 runs in three overs without picking up a wicket. His poor performance triggered widespread discussion and criticism online.
On-Air Debate Between Saqlain and Hafeez
A video circulating on social media captures the live debate where Saqlain Mushtaq staunchly defended Shadab, highlighting his abilities as both a batter and a bowler.
On the other hand, Mohammad Hafeez argued that an all-rounder must first excel in the discipline that justifies their place in the team. For instance, a bowling all-rounder should prove their worth with the ball before worrying about batting contributions, and vice versa for batting all-rounders. Hafeez even referenced his own career to illustrate the point.
Family Ties Add Another Layer
The debate carries an added personal dimension, as Shadab Khan is Saqlain Mushtaq’s son-in-law. Shadab married Saqlain’s daughter Malaika Saqlain in January 2023, strengthening the veteran spinner’s vocal support for the all-rounder during the televised discussion.
The exchange has sparked conversations across cricketing circles and social media platforms, with fans divided on whether Shadab’s performance should be defended or critiqued. This incident highlights the fine line between professional assessment and personal allegiance in cricket punditry.
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