Pakistan’s defeat to England in the T20 World Cup sparked a heated debate on state television, where two former cricketers openly disagreed over Shadab Khan’s defined role.
The discussion took place during a post-match programme, as Mohammad Hafeez and Saqlain Mushtaq exchanged sharp views on team balance and individual responsibility.
At the centre of the argument was all-rounder Shadab Khan and the question of how his position in the national side should be defined.
Mohammad Hafeez said uncertainty over Shadab Khan’s primary role was disrupting team balance and creating confusion in assessing his performances at international level.
The former captain said management must decide whether Shadab is a batting or bowling all-rounder, as expectations and accountability depend on that clear distinction.
Heated exchange between Saqlain Mushtaq and Muhammad Hafeez over Shadab Khan#T20WorldCup #cricket #PAKvENG pic.twitter.com/7vXLxiSp5k
— Urooj Jawed🇵🇰 (@uroojjawed12) February 24, 2026
Saqlain, however, strongly defended Shadab and rejected the criticism that followed Pakistan’s defeat, insisting the all-rounder’s contributions should not be judged narrowly.
The former spinner said Shadab has played several match-winning knocks, and labelling him solely as a bowling all-rounder limits proper recognition of his overall abilities.
Responding firmly, Hafeez referred to his own playing career and stressed that every all-rounder must clearly understand his primary responsibility within the team structure.
The former all-rounder further added that his captains had told him if he failed to score runs with the bat, his bowling alone would not justify his place.
Hafeez said clarity of role at international level is vital for consistent success, as clearly defined responsibilities help players perform with greater confidence in major tournaments.
