Sports
Shadab Khan | Pakistan Cricket Player
Shadab Khan is a Pakistani international cricketer who plays for the Pakistan national cricket team. He captains Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), and under his leadership they won the PSL 2024 for a record third time in the tournament’s history. An all-rounder, Khan is Pakistan’s most successful T20I bowler. He is also regarded as one of the best fielders in Pakistan. As of 2022, he has been among the players centrally contracted by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Khan was a member of the Pakistan team that won the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy.
Personal Information
| Full Name: | Shadab Khan |
| Date of Birth: | 4 October 1998 |
| Place of Birth: | Mianwali, Punjab, Pakistan |
| Nationality: | Pakistani |
| Height: | 5 ft 10 in (178 cm) |
| Batting Style: | Right-handed |
| Bowling Style: | Right-arm leg spin |
| Role: | All-rounder |
Early Life and Background
Family Background
Shadab Khan was born in Mianwali, a city in the Punjab province of Pakistan. His family has always supported his love for cricket. Growing up, Shadab was encouraged by his parents and siblings to follow his dreams. His family played a crucial role in his development as a cricketer, providing the emotional and moral support he needed to pursue his passion.
Education
Shadab completed his early education in his hometown of Mianwali. Balancing his studies with his cricket practice was challenging, but he managed to do both. Schooling was important to his family, and they ensured he attended school regularly while also allowing him time to practice cricket. This balance helped Shadab develop discipline and time management skills, which later became valuable in his cricket career.
Early Interest in Cricket
From a very young age, Shadab was passionate about cricket. He often played cricket with his friends in the streets and fields of Mianwali. His talent was evident early on, and he quickly became known as one of the best young players in his area. He idolized Pakistani cricketers and dreamed of playing for the national team one day. His early success in local cricket matches boosted his confidence and determination.
Youth Career
Shadab’s talent caught the attention of local coaches and cricket clubs. He joined youth cricket teams and started playing in organized matches. His performances were impressive, and he was soon selected for regional teams. Playing for these teams gave him exposure to better coaching and more competitive cricket. He learned a lot from these experiences, which prepared him for higher levels of the sport.
Domestic Career
Teams Played For
- Rawalpindi Rams: Shadab started his professional career with the Rawalpindi Rams. This team played a crucial role in his development as a cricketer.
- Islamabad United: Shadab has been a part of Islamabad United since 2017. His performances for this team have been outstanding, and he eventually became their captain.
- Trinbago Knight Riders: Shadab played for this team in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) in 2017, gaining valuable experience in international T20 leagues.
- Sui Gas Ltd: He also played domestic cricket for Sui Gas Ltd, where he continued to hone his skills.
- Brisbane Heat: Shadab joined Brisbane Heat for the Big Bash League (BBL) in Australia for the 2017/18 season, showcasing his talent on a global stage.
- Guyana Amazon Warriors: In 2019, Shadab played for the Guyana Amazon Warriors in the CPL.
- Northern: He represented Northern in Pakistan’s domestic circuit from 2019 to 2022.
- Dhaka Platoon: Shadab played for Dhaka Platoon in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) in the 2019/20 season.
- Sydney Sixers: He was part of the Sydney Sixers team in the 2021/22 BBL season.
- Yorkshire: Shadab played for Yorkshire in 2022, gaining experience in English county cricket.
- Hobart Hurricanes: He joined the Hobart Hurricanes for the 2022/23 BBL season.
- Sussex: Shadab played for Sussex in the 2023 season, furthering his experience in county cricket.
- Birmingham Phoenix: He played for Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred competition in 2023.
- San Francisco Unicorns: In 2023, Shadab joined the San Francisco Unicorns, expanding his T20 league experience to the United States.
First-Class Debut
Shadab made his first-class debut playing for Rawalpindi in the 2016–17 season. His debut was a significant milestone, marking his entry into professional cricket. In first-class cricket, Shadab showcased his all-round abilities, contributing both with the bat and ball.
List A Debut
He debuted in List A cricket for Rawalpindi. In List A matches, Shadab’s performances were impressive, and he quickly became known for his effective leg spin and handy lower-order batting. His skills in this format earned him recognition and paved the way for his inclusion in T20 and ODI squads.
Twenty20 Debut
Shadab made his Twenty20 debut on 26 August 2016, playing for Rawalpindi in the National T20 Cup. His debut was remarkable as he demonstrated his bowling skills by taking crucial wickets and maintaining a low economy rate. This performance caught the attention of selectors and cricket fans alike.
Notable Performances
Quaid-e-Azam Trophy
The Quaid-e-Azam Trophy is Pakistan’s premier first-class cricket competition, and Shadab Khan has participated in it representing various teams like Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
2016-2017 Season:
- Match against Lahore Blues: Shadab took 6 wickets for 108 runs in the first innings and followed it up with 4 wickets for 52 runs in the second innings, leading Rawalpindi to a crucial victory. His match figures of 10/160 showcased his ability to bowl long spells and take wickets consistently.
2018-2019 Season:
- Match against Karachi Whites: Shadab scored a crucial 74 runs coming in at number seven, displaying his batting prowess. With the ball, he took 3 wickets for 70 runs in the first innings and 4 wickets for 56 runs in the second innings. His all-around performance helped his team secure a draw in a challenging match.
National T20 Cup
The National T20 Cup is Pakistan’s domestic T20 competition, where Shadab has also made a mark.
2019-2020 Season:
- Match against Central Punjab: Shadab bowled a superb spell, taking 3 wickets for 23 runs in his 4 overs. His economical and wicket-taking bowling helped his team, Northern, to restrict Central Punjab to a manageable total, which Northern chased down successfully.
2020-2021 Season:
- Match against Southern Punjab: Shadab scored a quickfire 50 off just 28 balls, showcasing his ability to contribute significantly with the bat in the T20 format. He also chipped in with the ball, taking 2 wickets for 27 runs, leading Northern to a comprehensive victory.
Pakistan Cup
The Pakistan Cup is the country’s premier List A (one-day) competition.
- Match against Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Shadab scored 63 runs off 49 balls, playing a crucial role in boosting the total for his team, Islamabad. With the ball, he took 3 wickets for 45 runs in his 10 overs, helping his team secure a win in a tightly contested match.
Awards and Recognitions
Shadab Khan, known for his all-round capabilities, has received several accolades in domestic cricket for his outstanding performances. While detailed records of specific awards in domestic circuits like the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, National T20 Cup, and Pakistan Cup are not as thoroughly documented as those for international or PSL performances, there are some notable recognitions and achievements that highlight his impact in domestic cricket.
Player of the Match Awards: Throughout different seasons of Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, Shadab has earned numerous Player of the Match awards, particularly for his match-winning performances with both bat and ball. For instance, his 10-wicket haul against Lahore Blues in the 2016-2017 season likely earned him such recognition.
Best Bowler of the Match: Shadab has received awards for his exceptional bowling performances in various matches in National T20 Cup. His economical and wicket-taking spells have often earned him the title of Best Bowler in individual matches.
International Career
International Debut
Test Debut:
Shadab made his Test debut for Pakistan on 30 April 2017 against the West Indies. In his debut match, he showed promise with both bat and ball, making an impact in his first appearance in the longer format of the game.
ODI Debut:
Shadab’s One Day International (ODI) debut came on 7 April 2017 against the West Indies. His performance in this match was notable, and he quickly became a regular member of Pakistan’s ODI squad.
T20I Debut:
Shadab made his Twenty20 International (T20I) debut for Pakistan on 26 March 2017 against the West Indies. His debut was exceptional, as he recorded the most economical figures for a bowler completing their four overs on debut in a T20I.
Major Achievements
Shadab was a key member of the Pakistan team that won the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy. His contributions in the tournament were crucial, particularly his economical bowling and sharp fielding. This victory was a significant achievement for Shadab early in his international career.
Key Performances
T20I Debut:
On his T20I debut, Shadab took 3 wickets for just 7 runs, the most economical figures for a bowler completing their four overs on debut in a T20I. This performance showcased his potential as a world-class leg spinner.
ODI Fifty:
On 16 October 2017, against Sri Lanka, Shadab scored his maiden ODI fifty. He built a crucial partnership with Babar Azam, helping Pakistan set a competitive total. His all-round performance in this match, which included taking three wickets, earned him the Man of the Match award.
World Cup 2019:
Shadab was part of Pakistan’s squad for the 2019 Cricket World Cup. Despite facing a virus that initially ruled him out of the England tour, he recovered in time to play in the World Cup. On 23 June 2019, in Pakistan’s match against South Africa, Shadab took his 50th wicket in ODIs, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Records and Milestones
Most Economical Spell on Debut in T20I:
Shadab’s debut in T20Is was marked by an exceptionally economical spell, with figures of 4 overs, 7 runs, and 3 wickets.
First Pakistani to Take 100 T20I Wickets:
On 27 March 2023, Shadab became the first male cricketer from Pakistan to take 100 wickets in T20Is. This achievement highlights his consistency and effectiveness as a T20 bowler.
Youngest T20I Captain for Pakistan:
Shadab became the youngest T20I captain for Pakistan at the age of 22 years and 75 days, showcasing his leadership abilities at a young age.
Playing Style and Skills
Batting Style and Strengths
Shadab is a right-handed batsman known for his aggressive batting style. He often bats in the lower middle order and is capable of playing crucial innings when needed. His ability to score quickly and his knack for playing innovative shots make him a valuable asset in limited-overs cricket. Shadab has a calm temperament, which allows him to handle pressure situations effectively.
Bowling Style and Specialties
As a right-arm leg spinner, Shadab’s bowling style is characterized by his ability to deliver sharp leg breaks and deceptive googlies. He is known for his control and accuracy, making it difficult for batsmen to score off him. His variations and ability to read the batsman’s intentions make him a potent weapon in T20 cricket, where economy and wicket-taking ability are crucial.
Fielding Abilities
Shadab is widely regarded as one of the best fielders in Pakistan. His quick reflexes, agility, and strong throwing arm make him a standout fielder. He is often seen taking stunning catches and effecting crucial run-outs, adding significant value to his team in the fielding department.
Signature Moves/Deliveries
Shadab’s signature delivery is his googly, a ball that spins the opposite way to a normal leg break. Batsmen often struggle to pick this variation, leading to their dismissal. Additionally, his quicker delivery and well-disguised flipper are other variations that have been effective in deceiving batsmen.
Stats and Records
Test Matches
Matches Played:
Shadab Khan has played 6 Test matches from 2017 to 2024.
Runs Scored:
He has scored 300 runs in these matches, with his highest score being 56.
Batting Average:
Shadab maintains a batting average of 33.33 in Test cricket.
Centuries/Half-Centuries:
He has yet to score a century, but he has hit 3 half-centuries.
Wickets Taken:
Shadab Khan has taken 14 wickets.
Bowling Average:
Shadab Khan bowling average stands at 36.64.
Best Bowling:
His best bowling figures in an innings are 3/31.
Shadab Khan has played six Test matches from 2017 to 2024. In these matches, he has scored a total of 300 runs, with an average of 33.33. His highest score in Test cricket is 56, and he has three half-centuries to his name. As a bowler, Shadab has taken 14 wickets, with his best bowling figures being 3/31. Although his contributions in Test matches are not as extensive as in limited-overs cricket, Shadab has shown his potential in both batting and bowling.
ODI Matches
Matches Played:
Shadab has played 70 One Day Internationals (ODIs).
Runs Scored:
He has scored 855 runs in ODIs, with a top score of 86.
Batting Average:
His batting average in ODIs is 25.90.
Centuries/Half-Centuries:
Shadab has not scored a century in ODIs, but he has achieved 4 half-centuries.
Wickets Taken:
He has taken 85 wickets in this format.
Bowling Average:
His bowling average in ODIs is 34.82.
Best Bowling:
His best bowling performance in an ODI is 4/27
In One-Day Internationals, Shadab Khan has been a significant contributor to the Pakistan team. With 70 matches played, he has scored 855 runs, averaging 25.9. His highest score in ODIs is 86, and he has four half-centuries. As a bowler, Shadab has taken 85 wickets at an average of 34.82, with his best bowling figures being 4/27. One of his notable performances came against the Netherlands in 2022, where he took 4 wickets for just 27 runs, helping Pakistan secure a crucial victory.
T20I Matches
Matches Played:
Shadab Khan has played 101 T20 Internationals (T20Is) from 2017 to 2024.
Runs Scored:
In T20Is, he has scored 675 runs, with his highest score being 52.
Batting Average:
His batting average in T20Is is 18.75.
Centuries/Half-Centuries:
He has not scored any centuries but has one half-century to his name.
Wickets Taken:
Shadab has taken 107 wickets in T20Is.
Bowling Average:
His bowling average in this format is 23.46.
Best Bowling:
His best bowling figures in T20Is are 4/8.
Domestic and Other T20 Leagues
Shadab Khan made a strong impact in domestic cricket, debuting in first-class cricket in July 2016. His performances in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) for Islamabad United brought him into the spotlight, earning praise from cricket legends like Wasim Akram and Misbah-ul-Haq. He has continued to shine in the PSL, being recognized for his all-round capabilities and leadership.
While Shadab Khan has formed numerous vital partnerships throughout his career, his collaborative efforts with Babar Azam are particularly noteworthy. For instance, in the 2024 Pakistan Super League (PSL), Shadab’s commendable sportsmanship was highlighted when he congratulated Babar Azam on a brilliant century, underscoring the mutual respect and camaraderie between the two players
Captaincy and Leadership
Captaincy Record
Shadab has shown leadership qualities from a young age. He captained Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and led them to victory in the 2024 season. His captaincy is marked by his strategic acumen, ability to inspire his teammates, and calm demeanor under pressure.
Leadership Style
Shadab’s leadership style is characterized by his calm and composed approach. He leads by example, both with his performances and his attitude on the field. He encourages his teammates to play fearlessly and supports them during tough times. His ability to stay cool under pressure and make smart decisions has earned him respect as a leader.
Notable Series Wins
As captain of Islamabad United, Shadab led the team to victory in the 2024 PSL season, marking a record third win for the franchise. His leadership was instrumental in guiding the team through a challenging tournament, and his tactical decisions were crucial in key matches.
Off the Field
Personal Life
Family:
Shadab comes from a supportive family who has always encouraged his cricket career. His close relationship with his family has been a source of strength throughout his journey.
Spouse/Partner:
On 23 January 2023, Shadab married Malaika Saqlain, the daughter of former Pakistani cricketer and coach Saqlain Mushtaq. Their marriage is a testament to Shadab’s close ties within the cricketing community.
Hobbies and Interests
Shadab enjoys spending his free time with family and friends. He is passionate about fitness and often engages in various sports and physical activities to stay in shape. Additionally, Shadab is known to be a fan of video games and enjoys playing them to relax.
Philanthropy and Charity Work
Shadab Khan is actively involved in philanthropy and charity work. He believes in giving back to society and often participates in charitable activities. His contributions to various causes, especially those related to education and sports for underprivileged children, are well-regarded.
Business Ventures
While Shadab is primarily focused on his cricket career, he has shown interest in business ventures. He is involved in several initiatives that aim to promote sports and fitness. These ventures are part of his plan to remain connected to the world of sports even after his playing days are over.
Controversies and Challenges
Major Controversies
Shadab has generally maintained a clean image, but like many high-profile athletes, he has faced some controversies. One notable incident occurred during a match against England when he had a verbal clash with teammate Sarfraz Ahmed. That happened when Shadab came in Sarfraz’s path while taking a catch. Former Sri Lankan captain Kumar Sangakkara commented on the incident, suggesting that Sarfraz had no interest in going for the catch.
Injuries
Injuries are part and parcel of a cricketer’s life, and Shadab has had his share of them. He has faced several injuries throughout his career, which have sometimes kept him out of important matches. He has faced calf injury and a thumb injury. Despite these setbacks, Shadab has shown resilience and determination, making strong comebacks each time.
Comebacks
Shadab’s ability to bounce back from injuries and setbacks has been commendable. Each time he has faced a challenge, he has worked hard to regain his form and fitness. His comebacks have often been marked by strong performances, proving his mettle and determination.
Legacy and Impact
Impact on the Game
Shadab Khan’s impact on cricket, particularly in Pakistan, has been significant. His performances have inspired many young cricketers to pursue the sport. As a talented all-rounder, he has set a high standard for future generations. His success in T20 cricket, in particular, has helped raise the profile of the format in Pakistan.
Inspirations and Mentorship
Shadab has often spoken about the cricketers who inspired him, including legendary leg-spinners like Shane Warne and Abdul Qadir. He has also been mentored by senior players and coaches throughout his career. As he continues to grow in his role, Shadab is likely to become a mentor to younger players, sharing his experiences and knowledge.
Quotes by/from Player
Shadab is known for his humble and down-to-earth personality. He often emphasizes the importance of hard work and dedication. Some of his notable quotes include:
- “Cricket is my passion, and I am grateful for the opportunities I have received.”
- “Always stay focused and work hard. Success will follow.”
Media and Endorsements
Media Appearances
Shadab has made several appearances in the media, both in Pakistan and internationally. He has been featured in interviews, talk shows, and cricket analysis programs. His insights and experiences are valued by fans and cricket experts alike.
Endorsements
As a successful cricketer, Shadab has endorsed various brands. These endorsements include sports equipment, fitness products, and lifestyle brands like Pepsi, Gymnasium, Ufone and Foodpanda. His association with these brands reflects his popularity and marketability.
Future Plans
Post-Retirement Plans
Shadab has expressed interest in staying connected to cricket even after his playing days are over. He aims to contribute to the sport through coaching, mentoring, and possibly cricket administration. His experience and knowledge will be valuable in developing future cricket talents.
Involvement in Cricket Post-Retirement
Shadab plans to remain involved in cricket through various roles. He is interested in coaching young players, sharing his expertise, and helping them develop their skills. Additionally, he may take on roles in cricket commentary and analysis, providing insights based on his vast experience.
