If media reports are to be believed, all-rounder Shadab Khan is set to lead Pakistan in the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand. His last international appearance was back in June 2024 during the T20 World Cup against Ireland. But here’s the real question—does he truly deserve this opportunity?
If he was the ideal captain, why was he out of the team in the first place? Why was he not part of the squads for the Australia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa tours? To get a clearer picture, let’s break down his performances over the last two years.
Shadab Khan’s T20I Stats in the Last Two Years
Shadab Khan’s T20I performances over the last two years paint a concerning picture of his form. As a batter, his numbers have declined significantly. In 2023, he played 8 matches, scoring 93 runs at an average of 18.60 with a strike rate of 113.41—not impactful for a middle-order player.
However, things worsened in 2024, where he featured in 12 matches and managed just 110 runs at a poor average of 13.75, despite an improved strike rate of 150.68. This indicates that while he may have been scoring quicker, he wasn’t staying long enough at the crease to make meaningful contributions.
Read More: “Virat Kohli is Zero Compared to Babar Azam”
As a bowler, the stats are even more alarming. In 2023, he picked up 6 wickets in 8 matches at an average of 32.66 and an economy of 7.53—figures that suggest he was relatively economical but not a consistent wicket-taker.
His form completely fell apart in 2024, where he played 12 matches and took only 3 wickets, averaging a staggering 73.66 with an economy of 9.60. These numbers indicate that not only was he struggling to take wickets, but he was also conceding runs at an alarming rate.
As a batter:
- 2023: 8 matches, 93 runs, average 18.60, strike rate 113.41
- 2024: 12 matches, 110 runs, average 13.75, strike rate 150.68
As a bowler:
- 2023: 8 matches, 6 wickets, average 32.66, economy 7.53
- 2024: 12 matches, 3 wickets, average 73.66, economy 9.60
Overall, these stats suggest that Shadab Khan has been far from his best with both bat and ball. His inability to perform consistently in either department raises serious questions about his selection, let alone his captaincy credentials.
His below-par performances led to his exclusion from the team after Pakistan’s disastrous 2024 T20 World Cup campaign. So, what did he do in domestic cricket to justify his return?
Read More: Pakistan Set for Major Overhaul in T20I Squad for New Zealand Tour
Shadab Khan’s Domestic Form – Not Convincing
Shadab Khan played six matches in the Champions T20 Cup, but his performances were far from impressive. With the bat, he scored just 24 runs at an average of 6, striking at 70.58—numbers that wouldn’t even make a case for a specialist batter.
As a leg-spinner, which is supposed to be his primary skill, he barely bowled in the tournament. Some reports claim he was carrying an injury, which explains why he didn’t bowl much. Fair enough. But if he wasn’t fit enough to bowl, did he at least prove his worth as a batter? Clearly not.
Now, if a player is making a comeback after months, it should be on the back of strong performances. Shadab’s recent record doesn’t suggest he’s in form, let alone deserving of captaincy.
Selection Based on Talent or Current Form?
There’s no doubt that Shadab is a talented cricketer. When in form, he can bowl four solid overs, take crucial wickets, contribute valuable runs, and we all know he’s an exceptional fielder.
But talent alone isn’t enough after playing international cricket for eight years. At this stage, form and performances should matter more than reputation. Based on his recent outings, he doesn’t even deserve a spot in the playing XI, let alone being appointed captain.
Pakistan seems to be entering a transition phase. But does that mean Shadab Khan should be leading the side despite his poor form? That’s the real debate. What do you think—does he deserve this comeback?
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.