Pakistan all-rounder Khushdil Shah has dismissed reports that he is considering leaving international cricket following his prolonged absence from the national team, calling the speculation “completely untrue.”
The 31-year-old said representing Pakistan remains his top priority and urged fans not to believe baseless rumours circulating on social media.
Khushdil's future came under discussion after an interview from two months ago resurfaced on social media.
In the interview, fellow Pakistan all-rounder Abbas Afridi claimed that Khushdil had told him he had around four months to earn a return to the national team, otherwise he would consider leaving Pakistan cricket.
The comments quickly gained traction online and sparked speculation that Khushdil could be preparing to end his international career.
Khushdil, however, has now firmly rejected those reports.
“There's fake news going around claiming I'm leaving Pakistan cricket and it's completely untrue,” Khushdil wrote.
‘Pakistan is my home’
The Pakistan all-rounder urged his fans to ignore the rumours and reiterated his commitment to the national side.
“Pakistan is my home, and representing this country has always been my top priority and greatest honour,” he said.
Khushdil added that his commitment to Pakistan cricket “has never changed and never will”, making it clear that he has no plans to walk away from international cricket.
“Please don't believe these baseless rumours. My commitment to Pakistan cricket has never changed and never will,” he said.
Khushdil’s international career
Khushdil made his Pakistan debut in November 2019 and has represented the country in 15 ODIs and 38 T20Is.
His most recent international appearance came during last year's ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup, when he featured in Pakistan's group-stage match against the UAE and scored four runs.
He was subsequently left out of Pakistan's playing XI for the remainder of the tournament and was later dropped from the squad altogether.
Despite his extended absence from the national team, Khushdil's latest comments make clear that he remains committed to earning his place back in Pakistan colours.
