Shadab Khan is a Pakistani international cricketer known for his versatile all-round abilities. A right-handed lower-order batter, right-arm leg-break and googly bowler, and dynamic fielder, he plays for the Pakistan national cricket team across formats and is considered one of Pakistan’s leading spin all-rounders. Shadab also represents Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and has featured in various T20 franchise leagues globally.
Shadab made his ODI and T20I debuts in April 2017 against the West Indies and debuted in Test cricket in October 2017 versus Sri Lanka. Early in his career he quickly established himself as a key spin option for Pakistan in limited-overs cricket, combining wicket-taking ability with economical bowling. Over successive seasons he has been a regular member of Pakistan’s ODI and T20I squads, contributing in major series and ICC events.
In Tests, he has provided valuable breakthroughs and stability in the spin department, particularly on subcontinent surfaces. In ODIs and T20Is, his leg spin and variations, including the googly and quicker sweeps, have made him effective in middle overs. Shadab has also captained Pakistan in limited-overs formats and stood in as vice-captain, underlining his leadership profile.
Before international breakthrough, Shadab played domestic cricket for Punjab and age-group competitions in Pakistan. In the PSL, he has been a mainstay for Islamabad United since 2017, contributing as a leading wicket-taker in several seasons and providing vital all-round performances. His leadership was recognised when he was appointed captain of Islamabad United in 2024, making him one of the youngest captains in PSL history. Shadab has also featured in international T20 leagues, including Caribbean Premier League (CPL) teams and other franchise competitions where his leg spin and athletic fielding have been assets.
Shadab’s bowling is characterised by classical leg spin with control, flight, and variations such as the googly and slider. He bowls aggressively in the middle overs and at times uses his lower trajectory and variations to limit scoring. As a lower-order batter, he has shown the ability to contribute quick runs when needed. His fielding is proactive and athletic, giving Pakistan flexibility in team composition.
His leadership roles in both national side and PSL indicate his tactical confidence and respect among teammates. His ability to shift momentum with key wickets has made him a valuable component of Pakistan’s limited-overs bowling attacks.
Shadab Khan is a key spin all-rounder for Pakistan, combining leg spin bowling, lower-order batting, and athletic fielding. With leadership roles at franchise and international levels and consistent performance across formats, he remains an important figure in Pakistan’s cricketing setup.