'Yes I am learning a lot from Saqlain Mushtaq because of his strong cricket coaching background. But it does not mean he is doing me favours.'
Pakistan's senior all-rounder Shadab Khan has said he is frustrated by repeated allegations of being favoured and promoted by his father-in-law Saqlain Mushtaq, who holds considerable influence in the country's apex body for cricket.
Saqlain, who is one of the five mentors appointed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) last year on hefty salaries, has also remained head coach of the national team and works at the National Cricket Academy.
Shadab, who married Saqlain's daughter two years back, has remained out of the Pakistan team since last year's ICC T20 World Cup but made a surprise comeback to the T20 squad for the tour of New Zealand as vice-captain.
Some former players and critics have hinted that Shadab is being favoured by Saqlain in selection matters.
"It is frustrating and disappointing to hear such things because my career is nearly seven years long," Shadab told the media in Rawalpindi.
"I have given some good performances since debuting for Pakistan. Yes I am learning a lot from Saqlain Mushtaq because of his strong cricket coaching background. But it does not mean he is doing me favours," Shadab said.
"It hurts when the connection with Saqlain Mushtaq is repeatedly brought up."
Shadab said it was particularly painful when some former players made such remarks.
"I have been trying to improve my bowling by working with my father-in-law because I consider myself more beneficial to the team as a bowler than a batter," Shadab added.
"Saqlain Mushtaq is working with me to improve my bowling. I am hopeful that with his guidance, good results will follow, and there will be consistency in my performances," he added.
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