Tauseef, Saqlain Clash Over Shadab Khan’s Selection

ISLAMABAD: (Sports Desk) – Former Pakistan spinners Tauseef Ahmed and Saqlain Mushtaq have become embroiled in a dispute over the inclusion of all-rounder Shadab Khan in the national team.

Speaking on a social media programme, Tauseef Ahmed alleged that Saqlain Mushtaq was excessively supportive of Shadab Khan, who is his son-in-law, and questioned the backing the player continues to receive despite concerns over his performances.

Tauseef claimed that Saqlain had contacted him over the matter and that another person had also approached him on Saqlain’s behalf. He said he had a recording of the conversation and maintained that “wrong is wrong.”

The former spinner also questioned the team selection and contract system, saying some players continue to receive opportunities despite fitness and performance concerns. He referred to captain Shan Masood’s placement in the ‘C’ or ‘D’ category and questioned why similar issues were not being discussed.

Tauseef further argued that favouritism should not be shown towards an underperforming player, asking what fault lay with Sufiyan Muqeem.

Saqlain Mushtaq strongly rejected the allegations and challenged Tauseef to make the alleged recording public.

In a social media post, Saqlain said he had contacted Tauseef out of respect because he regarded him as a senior and held him in high esteem.

Saqlain said Tauseef should prove his claim by releasing the recording and added that he also had a complete record of the matter.

“Do not lie, do not conceal facts, and do not distort the matter,” Saqlain said, adding that if Tauseef released his records, he would also present his own so that the public could hear the facts and judge the matter for themselves.