Former Pakistani legend spinner, Mushtaq Ahmed, is currently in the midst of finding a new job after his contract with Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) expires next month.
Mushtaq is currently the head coach at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) and has already been offered three various jobs; one of which is with the Sri Lankan national team.
According to reports, the spin magician is reviewing all the job proposals and will come to a conclusion after his contract with PCB expires.
Talking about his two-year stint with the national team, Mushtaq said that “four to five spinners have gone on to represent Pakistan in my time here.”
Speaking of the current crop, he revealed that Shadab Khan entered the camp as a batsman and it was under his guidance and coaching that Shadab became a quality leg-spinner.
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Shadab’s breakthrough moment came in the ICC’s Champions Trophy where Pakistan faced India in the final of the tournament. After putting a humongous total on the board batting first, Pakistani bowlers rattled the Indian batting lineup with quick wickets at the top of the order.
Yuvraj Singh, a decisive batsman, was slowly setting in the groove but faced Shadab in the middle overs of the match. Following a close LBW appeal after a pad and bat, the umpire said no. However, Shadab remained content that Yuvraj’s pad hit the ball first. He forced Sarfraz to take the review which helped Pakistan get rid of the dangerous batsman.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kLjKPzE71Xs
That moment solidified Shadab’s reputation as a mentally strong individual despite being 19 years of age. He carried his good performances with ball and bat, both which earned him a call-up for the Big Bash League as well.
Speaking more about Pakistani players, Mushtaq further added:
Leggie Yasir Shah didn’t know how to bowl around the wicket. I taught him that. Fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi considers me a mentor as well.
For a player to earn a name for himself, a lot of effort has to be put in behind closed curtains; effort from himself and the coaches. The coaches are responsible for determining and resolving the issues with players’ technique and other problems.
Similarly, Mushtaq has been a key figure when it comes to grooming the next generation and it would be a shame for Pakistan to lose a valuable asset such as him.
