Former Pakistani Cricketer Levels Serious Allegations Against Misbah-ul-Haq

Former Pakistan cricketer Ahmed Shehzad has raised concerns over Pakistan’s recently announced ODI squad for the Bangladesh series while making serious allegations about the treatment of young wicketkeeper-batsman Haseebullah Khan in domestic cricket.

Pakistan recently announced its squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Bangladesh, with Shaheen Afridi named as captain. The squad also drew attention because of the absence of several emerging players, while some experienced names remained in contention.

Speaking on a local Pakistani media platform during a discussion about the squad, Shehzad questioned the logic behind the current selections and expressed concern over how young players are being managed in the system.

Shehzad highlighted the case of Haseebullah Khan, claiming that the young wicketkeeper-batsman was sidelined despite strong performances for Pakistan Shaheens.

Shehzad said the player returned to domestic cricket after performing well for the Shaheens but was unexpectedly benched, even though domestic matches are crucial for players aiming to progress toward the national team.

The squad was reportedly finalized by a group that included Director of Domestic Cricket Khurram Niazi, Chief Selector Aqib Javed, head coach Mike Hesson, and advisor Misbah-ul-Haq.

According to Shehzad, the player later asked about the reason behind the decision. He suggested that the question may have been taken negatively by former Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq.

Shehzad claimed that after the conversation, Haseebullah was not only left out of the playing XI but remained benched for the entire season. He also alleged that the matter went beyond team selection, claiming that the player’s salary was stopped following the incident.

“Haseebullah was benched in domestic cricket despite performing for Shaheens. When he asked Misbah why, it hurt his ego and he was benched for the entire season. His salary was also stopped,” Shehzad alleged.

Shehzad further stated that during selection discussions, negative feedback was reportedly given about the player, including claims that he had attitude or disciplinary issues.

According to Shehzad, situations like this create uncertainty and frustration for young cricketers who are trying to establish themselves through domestic and development pathways.

Pakistan’s ODI squad will travel to Bangladesh on March 11 for the three-match series as the team looks to start a new phase in white-ball cricket.