The exchange began after Tauseef questioned Shadab’s inclusion and suggested his recent performances did not justify continued selection.
Former Pakistan spinners Tauseef Ahmed and Saqlain Mushtaq have traded criticism over Shadab Khan’s place in the national side, reigniting debate over the all-rounder’s selection.
The exchange began after Tauseef questioned Shadab’s inclusion and suggested his recent performances did not justify continued selection.
He argued that Pakistan should prioritise players who are consistently delivering with either bat or ball rather than relying on reputation or past performances.
Saqlain responded by defending Shadab and criticising what he described as unfair scrutiny of individual players.
He maintained that selection decisions should be viewed in the context of team requirements, conditions and the roles assigned to players.
The former off-spinner also stressed that experienced players can remain valuable even when they go through periods of inconsistent form.
Tauseef, however, stood by his position and said performances at international level must remain the primary benchmark for selection.
The debate comes as Pakistan continue to assess combinations ahead of upcoming international assignments.
Shadab has remained a regular part of Pakistan’s limited-overs setup for several years, contributing as a leg-spinner, lower-order batter and fielder.
His form and role in the side have repeatedly become subjects of debate, particularly when Pakistan’s bowling balance or middle-order performances have come under pressure.
The latest exchange between the two former spinners has added further attention to the broader question of how Pakistan should balance experience, versatility and current form when selecting its squad.