Pakistan may have fielded a youthful squad for the five-match T20I series in New Zealand, yet the outcomes remain unchanged. Under the leadership of Salman Ali Agha, the team suffered a nine-wicket defeat in the opening T20I in Christchurch, where they were dismissed for a mere 91 runs, allowing the BlackCaps to chase down the target easily.

Former Pakistan opener Ahmed Shehzad has raised concerns regarding Shadab Khan's selection in the team, questioning the all-rounder's contributions that justify his inclusion. It is noteworthy that Shadab has not been part of the squad since the 2024 T20 World Cup.

Additionally, Shadab was excluded from the Champions Trophy squad but was brought back for the T20I series following the Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) decision to drop Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan.

In the first T20I against New Zealand, Shadab managed only 3 runs and failed to take any wickets. Shehzad suggested that the board has specific intentions for the all-rounder.

“Regarding Shadab—what performances has he shown? Who was responsible for his inclusion? Let’s see how this series unfolds first. The PCB seems to have a different strategy for Shadab, and his selection serves a particular purpose,” Shehzad stated on Geo Super.

“We were bowled out, but how many wickets did we claim? Our senior and experienced bowling lineup—what impact have they made? Where is the evidence of their ability to deliver effective bowling, regardless of whether the batsmen are right-handed or left-handed?” he further inquired.

When asked about the validity of rumours suggesting Shadab Khan could become the next captain, Shehzad responded, “Yes. To allow for some time, they have sent a young team. These discussions are ongoing. We aim to address these matters, as this is merely the first T20I match.”

'Is there any responsibility?'

Ahmed Shehzad expressed concerns regarding the management, questioning the presence of responsibility and accountability within the organization. He also highlighted the Pakistan team's ongoing struggles with performance.

Recently, Pakistan could not progress beyond the group stage of the Champions Trophy, suffering defeats against New Zealand and India. Their final group match against Bangladesh was called off due to rain in Rawalpindi.

“In our time, the National Cricket Academy (NCA) organized extensive training camps that fostered player development. This institution should serve as a breeding ground for talent, rather than merely a platform for favoring certain individuals and securing salaries. It was created to cultivate players. So, where are those players now? How many have emerged?” Shehzad inquired.

“Is there any accountability or responsibility? The NCA is tasked with developing players for Pakistan. It is unfair to place all the blame on the players. What has Nadeem Khan accomplished at the NCA? Why is he not being scrutinized? The NCA is a significant institution—what players have they successfully nurtured? On what grounds was he appointed, and who authorized his position? What qualifications or credentials did he possess to be entrusted with such a role?” he further questioned.

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