Shadab Khan opens up on successful return ahead of T20 World Cup

DAMBULLA: Pakistan's experienced all-rounder Shadab Khan expressed delight over delivering a match-winning performance upon return to the national men's cricket team, a month ahead of the commencement of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026.

Shadab, who last represented the Green Shirts in the home T20I series against Bangladesh in May 2025, missed several key assignments during his recovery from the shoulder injury, including the white-ball tour of the West Indies, the tri-nation T20I series involving UAE and Afghanistan and the ACC Men's T20 Asia Cup 2025.

The 27-year-old made his competitive cricket return in December last year when he turned up for Sydney Thunder in the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL) and immediately made an impact with all-round brilliance for the franchise, which paved the way for his return to the international fold.

Shadab carried his franchise-cricket form into the international level and bagged the Player of the Match in Pakistan's six-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the T20I series opener, courtesy of economical bowling figures of 2/25 in his four overs, coupled with an unbeaten 18-run cameo off just 12 deliveries.

Reflecting on his match-winning return, Shadab Khan acknowledged the challenge of making comebacks in international cricket but expressed satisfaction with his current batting and bowling form.

"Comebacks in internationals are tough because you start from zero. Bowling and batting is going well, trying to do the simple things," said Shadab at the post-match presentation.

"The surface was helping definitely, but in cricket, you have to always assess the conditions. Here, fuller was better than good length," he added.

Notably, Shadab's return came at a time when Pakistan are finalising their preparations and pool of players for the T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8.

Although his all-round performance on return strengthened his case for making a cut to the Green Shirts' squad for the mega event, Shadab stressed being focused on one step at a time, but after admitting that representing the national team at the highest level was his dream.

"As a player, it's always your dream to play at the highest level. For me, one step at a time. The team has done so well - Mirza and Wasim gave us the platform with their seam bowling for the spinners."