Ahmad Shahzad was emotional about his absence from cricket as the former Pakistan batter opened up about his prolonged time away from competitive cricket, admitting that this phase has been harder than before, mainly because of his son.
Ahmed Shahzad, on the Geo News programme Hasna Mana Hai, where he appears as a regular panellist, said he still carries a strong desire to return to professional cricket. He admitted that watching his contemporaries continue their careers often leaves him reflecting on his own journey.
“Yes, of course, I get emotional. 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?”
Ahmad Shahzad Emotional Over Cricket Absence After PSL Auctions
Shahzad revealed that the days following every Pakistan Super League (PSL) auction are especially difficult. Having spent 18 years in the sport, he said the sudden shift away from competitive cricket weighs heavily on him.
Ahmad Shahzad in tears after the injustice in PSL Auction:
“My 9 years old son wanted me to see me play in the PSL”
This is heartbreaking indeed 💔
pic.twitter.com/KNAZ59caCJ
— Farid Khan (@_FaridKhan) February 12, 2026“For all those things to suddenly go away, I remember it a lot. It makes me want to cry,” he shared. “The first two or three days are very difficult, and it happens every time.”
The former opener, who was part of Quetta Gladiators’ title-winning PSL side, expressed disappointment that no official had approached him to discuss his cricketing future.
“Why is it that no one has the courtesy to come and talk to me and ask, ‘What happened? Let’s sort it out and do something for Pakistan?’” he questioned.
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He also mentioned confusion among franchise officials about his status. According to Shahzad, one team reportedly believed he was banned, while others assumed he had retired voluntarily. He suggested that clearer communication from the Pakistan Cricket Board could have avoided such misunderstandings.
Despite the frustration, Shahzad maintained a light tone at times. He said his presence in the PSL would still generate interest.
“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. He added humorously, “I know how to speak a bit. I’m a handsome man, I look good in the jersey.”
However, he firmly ruled out personally approaching officials to seek a return.
“A player’s biggest weapon is his respect and self-esteem. I cannot call someone and say, ‘Let’s sort it out,’” he stated.
While Shahzad acknowledged that he stands by his decisions, he admitted that his son’s feelings have made this period more emotional.
