Tauseef alleges Saqlain favours Shadab; spin wizard demands evidence

LAHORE: Former Pakistan spinners Tauseef Ahmed and Saqlain Mushtaq have exchanged remarks over allegations of favouritism in the selection of all-rounder Shadab Khan.

Speaking on former Pakistan cricketer Fawad Alam’s YouTube channel, Tauseef claimed that he had recordings which he said showed Saqlain lobbying for Shadab’s inclusion in the Pakistan team.

Shadab is Saqlain’s son-in-law.

Tauseef questioned what he described as excessive support for Shadab and said he had received a call from Saqlain as well as another person regarding the matter.

“Recording. I have the recording,” Tauseef said, while maintaining that he believed “wrong is wrong”.

Tauseef also raised questions about the treatment of Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood, claiming that Masood had been placed in a lower contract category while other players continued to receive contracts despite fitness concerns.

He also questioned the omission of players including Sufiyan Muqeem and criticised aspects of Pakistan’s coaching and player management.

Saqlain responded to Tauseef’s allegations on X, challenging him to release the alleged recording publicly.

“Mr Tauseef Ahmed, you said you have my voice message — prove it. Release it publicly,” Saqlain wrote.

Saqlain said he had contacted Tauseef out of respect for him as a senior and disputed the way the conversation had been portrayed.

“Don’t lie, don’t hide, and don’t twist the facts. I have the full record too. Release yours, and I’ll release mine. Let the public hear the truth,” he added.

Saqlain has previously held several roles in Pakistan cricket, including serving as interim head coach of the national team from 2021 to 2023.

The latest exchange has brought renewed attention to questions surrounding player selection and alleged favouritism in Pakistan cricket. The allegations made by Tauseef have not been independently verified in the material provided.