Responding to selection critiques from TV pundits, he quipped, ‘They were legends but failed where we succeeded, like beating India in the World Cup.’ The PCB wasted no time, with manager Naveed Cheema delivering a direct advisory: tone down the rhetoric on ex-players, many of whom are revered figures like Shadab’s relative Saqlain Mushtaq.

Insiders told media outlets that Cheema stressed, ‘Shadab crossed the line. All former cricketers command respect—no exceptions.’ The directive extends to the squad: keep comments game-focused or face consequences.

Even family weighed in. Saqlain, visibly upset, shared, ‘Unnecessary remarks. We delivered massive wins for Pakistan despite no ICC titles.’ Kamran Akmal added, ‘Words against elders need careful thought.’

Pakistan’s management is on high alert with media interactions. Post-India preparations saw a press blackout. In Namibia’s pre-match talk, Usman Tariq was muzzled on India game queries, with manager Naeem Gilani citing prior coach comments.

Looking ahead, Pakistan faces New Zealand in Colombo on Saturday for their Super-8 opener, then England in Pallekele on the 24th, and Sri Lanka shortly after. This episode serves as a reminder: on-field heroics must pair with off-field discipline in the pressure cooker of international cricket.