Former Pakistani cricketer Ahmed Shehzad has sparked conversation with candid remarks about the current mindset of young cricketers and the state of the national team, during a recent appearance on the Geo Podcast. Shehzad’s comments, reflecting both concern and nostalgia, touch on how the culture around cricket has shifted over the years and the impact this has had on Pakistan cricket.

During the podcast, Shehzad made a striking observation about the attitudes of young players in today’s Pakistan Super League (PSL). “Nowadays, a kid scores fifty in the PSL and immediately says, ‘Play me for Pakistan,’” he said. “This is exactly why our national team is in its current condition.” His remarks pointed to a perceived lack of patience, discipline, and the rigorous process that previous generations of cricketers underwent before earning their place in the national side.

Shehzad reflected on his own journey in cricket, emphasizing the dedication and struggles that shaped his career. He explained that his passion for the sport began at a young age. “I was in seventh or eighth grade when I started playing for my local club,” he recalled. “Cricket was an obsession. My mother would fulfill all my needs, and I would walk an hour to the ground just to practice in the nets. I used to be the first to arrive and water the pitch before anyone else came.” These anecdotes highlight the discipline, hard work, and personal sacrifices that Shehzad attributes to building a professional cricket career.

The former opener also spoke about the era in which he grew up, where there was no shortcut to success. “In our time, there was a proper process,” he explained. “We dedicated our entire lives to cricket. One or two days of practice did not make a player. There was no favoritism; we faced challenges, endured hardships, and truly struggled to reach this level.” By contrasting his generation with today’s rising stars, Shehzad expressed concern that modern players may not fully appreciate the patience and perseverance required to succeed at the international level.

Beyond cricket, Shehzad shared his commitment to humanitarian efforts, revealing a personal mission to give back to society. Discussing his work for flood-affected communities in Pakistan, he said, “I wanted to help people, and they honored my efforts. I wanted to do meaningful work before I pass away. Cricket has been a way for me to take a side and dedicate myself to serving my brothers and sisters.” In line with this vision, Shehzad announced plans to construct 100 homes for disaster-affected families and to adopt and fully support five orphaned children from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, reflecting his dedication to social responsibility.

His philanthropic efforts, Shehzad explained, are deeply personal. He believes that helping others provides purpose beyond his cricketing career, and that true fulfillment comes from service to the community. “I want to do something meaningful with my life, and cricket has given me the platform to do that,” he stated. This focus on humanitarian work underscores his belief that athletes have the opportunity—and the responsibility—to contribute positively to society.

Shehzad also discussed his cricketing philosophy, emphasizing the importance of discipline, hard work, and gradual development. He criticized the instant-gratification culture in modern cricket, where young players expect rapid promotion to the national team based on limited performances. “A fifty in the PSL doesn’t automatically make you ready for Pakistan cricket,” he said. “There is a process. You cannot become a player in a few days. It takes years of struggle, training, and learning the game.”

Throughout the podcast, Shehzad’s reflections were a mix of personal anecdotes, critique of contemporary trends, and inspiration drawn from his own journey. He underscored that the values instilled through rigorous training, patience, and perseverance are essential for long-term success in cricket. “We have given our whole lives to the sport, and this dedication is what shapes true players,” he added, highlighting the importance of experience, resilience, and humility.