Pakistan's T20 vice-captain, Shadab Khan, has addressed allegations that his return to the national team was facilitated by his relationship with former cricketer Saqlain Mushtaq, who is also his father-in-law.

 

In an interview with a cricket website, the all-rounder dismissed the claims, saying, "I have been playing for the national team for the past six to seven years and have performed well. It has only been two years since my marriage, yet my connection with Saqlain Mushtaq is repeatedly brought up, which is hurtful."

 

Shadab further expressed his disappointment over the comments made by former cricketers.

 

"It hurts the most when our own former players say such things because they understand what a player goes through," he said.

 

Addressing his performance and efforts behind the scenes, he remarked, "I have said before that a lot of work happens behind the scenes that people don't see. But in our country, only results matter. We are working hard for them, and Saqlain Mushtaq is helping me improve my bowling."

 

It is worth mentioning that Saqlain Mushtaq has been accused of lobbying for Shadab's selection as vice-captain for the New Zealand tour, despite him not being initially included in the playing XI.