Former Pakistan opener Ahmad Shahzad became visibly emotional while discussing his extended absence from professional cricket, revealing that this period away has been harder than previous times — mainly because of his nine-year-old son.
Speaking on Geo News’ program Harna Mana Hai, where he appears regularly as a panelist, Shahzad admitted that the longing to play competitively remains strong.
“Yes, of course, I get emotional. If I’m being honest, I feel very sad. I want to play,” he said. “My batchmates are all playing. I feel happy for them, but I do wonder about myself — what were the reasons, why did this happen?”
The Pain of Being Left Out
Shahzad, who was part of Quetta Gladiators’ title-winning side in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), said the days following each auction are particularly difficult.
“I have 18 years in this field. For all those things to suddenly go away, I remember it a lot. It makes me want to cry. The first two or three days are very difficult, and it happens every time,” he said.
He also voiced disappointment that despite nearly two decades in Pakistan’s cricket system, no official from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had personally reached out to him.
“Why is it that no one has the courtesy to come and talk to me and ask, ‘What happened, Ahmad Bhai? Let’s sort it out and do something for Pakistan?’” he said.
Confusion Over His Status
Shahzad revealed that some franchise officials were unsure about his availability.
“One team even thought I was banned. Some think Ahmad has retired happily. There is no clarity provided to them by the Pakistan Cricket Board,” he said.
Taking a lighter tone, Shahzad noted that his presence in the league would still generate attention.
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“If my name were in the PSL, wouldn’t the profile of the league go up? People would watch — some out of love, some out of hate, some just for fun,” he said with a smile. “I know how to speak a bit. I’m a handsome man, I look good in the jersey.”
On Self-Respect and Career Decisions
Despite his desire to return, Shahzad stressed that he would not personally approach officials to revive his career.
“A player’s biggest weapon is his respect and his self-esteem. I cannot call someone and say, ‘Let’s sort it out,’” he explained.
The emotional weight of missing out is compounded by his son. “This time, what hurts most is that he is nine. And he wanted me to play,” Shahzad said, pausing to gather his thoughts.
“He sleeps with me. He says, ‘Baba, I remember you used to play. But now I will remember you better.’ This is the one thing that touched my heart,” he added.
Standing by His Principles
Despite the frustration and emotional pain, Shahzad said he stands by his choices.
“Otherwise, I am happy with my decisions. I lived by my morals,” he said, as the studio audience applauded his remarks.
Shahzad’s heartfelt reflections highlight the personal side of professional sports — where family, respect, and self-esteem often weigh as heavily as trophies and records.
