Shadab Khan named Pakistan’s T20I vice captain – but is he the right candidate?

Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan has been named vice-captain for the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand.

This would mark his return to the national side after being dropped following Pakistan’s disastrous ICC T20 World Cup 2024 campaign.

However, his appointment raises a crucial question: Has Shadab Khan done enough to warrant a return to the team, that too as a vice-captain?

If he was truly the best candidate, why was he sidelined for the Australia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa tours? A closer look at his performances over the last two years paints a concerning picture.

Shadab’s T20I Numbers Tell a Different Story

Shadab Khan has been a mainstay of Pakistan’s white-balls teams since his debut in 2017, however, his T20I performances over the last two years paint a concerning picture of his form.

As a batter, his numbers have been far from convincing. In 2023, he managed 93 runs in eight matches at an average of 18.60 with a strike rate of 113.41.

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.

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His bowling stats are even more alarming. In 2023, he took six wickets in eight matches at an average of 32.66 and an economy of 7.53.

However, his form completely dipped in 2024, where he played 12 matches and picked up just three wickets, averaging a staggering 73.66 with an economy of 9.60.

With both bat and ball, Shadab Khan has struggled to make an impact for Pakistan. His inconsistency ultimately led to his exclusion from the national side after the T20 World Cup.

Domestic Form: Not a Strong Case for a Comeback

If an out-of-form player is making a return, it is usually based on strong domestic performances. But has Shadab Khan done enough at the domestic level to justify his recall?

In the Champions T20 Cup, he played six matches and managed just 24 runs at an average of 6, with a strike rate of 70.58—numbers that hardly make a case for selection as a specialist batter.

As for his primary skill—leg-spin—he barely bowled in the tournament. Some reports suggest he was carrying an injury, which explains his limited bowling. However, if he wasn’t fit to bowl, did he at least prove his worth as a batter? Clearly not.

Well, there is no denying Shadab’s talent. At his best, he is a genuine all-rounder who can deliver four quality overs, pick up crucial wickets, contribute with the bat, and field exceptionally well.

But talent alone isn’t enough after eight years of international cricket. At this stage, selection should be based on form, not reputation.

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