“Pad laga hey Saifi Bhai, pad laga hey phelay.” That iconic statement, One of the most memorable moments of Shadab Khan’s career was in the 2017 Champions Trophy Final against India. A moment of unbridled confidence and conviction announced Shadab Khan’s arrival on the global stage.
With Yuvraj Singh, a seasoned veteran, walking into a precarious scenario where wickets were tumbling at the other end, it seemed like only a matter of time before Yuvraj found his groove.
An 18-year-old Shadab ripped a leg-spinner past Yuvraj’s bat, and although the umpire initially denied the appeal, Shadab was adamant he had his man. With unwavering belief in his own ability, he convinced his captain, Sarfraz Ahmed, to review the decision. The rest, as they say, is history. The review showed the ball hitting the stumps, and Yuvraj was sent packing. That defining moment in 2017 was more than just a wicket; it was a declaration of intent from a budding cricketing sensation.
However, fast forward to the present, and the Shadab Khan of today is a far cry from the confident and conviction-filled cricketer who announced his arrival on the global stage. Injuries and burnout have taken their toll, and the young leg-spinner’s career has been plagued by setbacks and unfulfilled potential. The same spark and swagger that defined his early days are now mere embers, flickering faintly in the face of adversity.
Although, he has evolved into a more mature and intelligent cricketer, with a deeper understanding of the game and its intricacies. However, despite this newfound wisdom. Since the Asia Cup due to lack of form Shadab’s confidence has taken a dent, and he’s struggling to translate his ability into performance. His increased awareness of the game has not yet translated into the fearless and confident player that once defined him. Instead, he’s become more cautious, almost hesitant, as if second-guessing his own potential.
Shadab Khan, once the shining star of Pakistan cricket, has been facing a tough time on the field. Injuries and a dip in form have led to concerns about his future in the team, however, we believe that this talented cricketer deserves a second chance to rediscover his magic.
At just 25 years old, Shadab has already shown us glimpses of his incredible potential. A true “4D” player, his bowling, handy batting skills, and exceptional fielding abilities make him a valuable asset to any team and don’t forget his leadership capabilities. But injuries have taken a toll on his body, and he’s struggled to regain his rhythm. From being the MVP of the previous two T20 World Cups for Pakistan to getting called for being sacked and finished is truly tragic.
From 2021-2022 he played 48 games and made 552 runs with an average of 27.46. Picked 56 wickets with an average of 24.92. From 2023 and up till now his bowling average has doubled to 49.23 and only 24 wickets in 37 matches. His batting average has also taken a dip and is only 17.23 making only 462 runs. 2024 by far has been his worst year apart from winning PSL domestically, but in international cricket, he has only picked 3 wickets in 12 matches averaging 73.66!! Has made 110 runs with a shocking average of 13.75.
These stats include both ODIs and T20Is. This is the time that he needs rest. It’s clearly burnout, fatigue and injuries that are playing a factor in his performance internationally. He is an amazing talent and to see something like this is just sad.
Rather than writing him off, we think Shadab needs a fresh start. A chance to step away from the pressure of international cricket and focus on his rehabilitation and form. He should go back to first-class cricket. He can work on his injuries, rebuild his confidence, and come back stronger than ever.
So why first-class cricket? First-class cricket will provide the ideal platform for Shadab to refine his skills, particularly his bowling. Batters have started to pick him. At one point he had one of the best googly in international cricket, don’t believe me just ask Aiden Markham.
By playing first-class hopefully, he can get his deception back. As a spinner, the more you bowl the more confident you’ll get and that’s exactly what he needs. Shadab needs to bowl more to gain experience and confidence. First-class cricket offers the perfect opportunity to do so, allowing him to develop his craft and become a more potent bowler.
Secondly, it will give him the opportunity to improve his batting. Everyone by now knows that he has that “Keera” for batting otherwise he wouldn’t promote himself up the batting order for Islamabad United. Domestically, Shadab has shown a promising talent for batting, and internationally, he has glimpses of his potential.
He has played some incredible knocks for example 52 from 22 balls against South Africa in the T20 World Cup match or 86 from 78 balls against the West Indies. Both of these innings came when Pakistan was in trouble. Regular first-class cricket can help him convert this promise into consistent performances against top-tier international teams. He can be one of the missing puzzle pieces for Pakistan in the middle order.
By playing first-class cricket, Shadab can focus on his skills without the hectic schedule of international cricket. This will enable him to work on his weaknesses and develop a more well-rounded game. Finally by Playing first-class cricket until the 2027 World Cup will keep Shadab in top form, allowing him to peak at the right time.
Shadab Khan’s regular participation in first-class cricket is crucial for his growth as a well-rounded cricketer. By playing longer format cricket, Shadab will enhance his skills, build endurance, and develop leadership qualities, ultimately benefiting Pakistan’s national team. We believe in Shadab Khan’s potential and know that with the right support and guidance, he can reach new heights. Let’s give him the chance to rediscover his form and make Pakistan proud once again.
About the Author: Mir Balaach Khan is an undergrad student at UIC double majoring in neuroscience and sports psychology. A diehard Pakistani cricket fan who would love to see Pakistan cricket reach the pinnacle of world cricket and become great again!
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Very thought out beta