Former Pakistan Cricketer Ahmed Shehzad Condemns Media's IPL-PSL Comparison Tactics
Former Pakistan cricketer Ahmed Shehzad has launched a sharp critique against Pakistan journalists and media outlets for their persistent practice of asking foreign players to draw comparisons between the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Shehzad expressed his frustration over what he perceives as unnecessary and provocative questioning that puts players in awkward positions.
Shehzad Highlights Kusal Mendis Incident
Shehzad specifically pointed to recent interactions involving Sri Lankan batsman Kusal Mendis, who is currently participating in the PSL. "Kusal Mendis is playing and performing in the PSL, and he is being asked questions like 'sir, last time you left and went to the IPL, what do you think about that?' Look at what kind of questions they are asking," Shehzad remarked. He emphasized that such inquiries are not only irrelevant but also detract from the players' focus on their current performances in the PSL.
Reference to Rilee Rossouw's Comments
The former Pakistan batter also referenced comments made by South African cricketer Rilee Rossouw, who had previously described the IPL as a "movie." Shehzad noted, "Look at Rilee Rossouw — there is no clarity about his performances in the PSL, but he has made statements. And when he was asked about the IPL — what do you think about it — so while playing in the PSL, you obviously cannot praise the IPL. So in that, he said, 'Oh, that is a Bollywood movie. The cricket is happening here in the PSL.'" Shehzad added that no player would openly praise the IPL while actively competing in the PSL, as it could be seen as disloyal or disrespectful.
Details on Mendis' Questioning
Kusal Mendis, who is representing Peshawar Zalmi in PSL 2026, faced direct questioning about his decision to leave the PSL last year to join the IPL. A reporter inquired whether he had any "regrets" about joining the Gujarat Titans mid-season, despite being part of the Quetta Gladiators. The reporter asked, "Last year, you withdrew from the Pakistan Super League to play for the Gujarat Titans midway through the tournament. And you showed some security concerns. And now the Pakistan Super League is giving you respect again, and they (Gujarat Titans) did not pick you again. So, do you have any regret about withdrawing from the Pakistan Super League previous year?" Mendis reacted to the question but chose not to respond, highlighting the uncomfortable nature of such probes.
Rossouw's Comparison of the Two Leagues
Meanwhile, Rilee Rossouw, who is also a participant in the PSL, compared the two leagues, stating that the IPL feels "more of a movie than actual cricket." He elaborated, "The IPL obviously has the whole Bollywood behind it, so it's a lot more of a movie than actual cricket. So both of them have their pros and cons." This comment underscores the cultural and entertainment differences between the leagues, which Shehzad believes should not be the focus of media questioning during PSL events.
Shehzad's Broader Critique
Ahmed Shehzad's criticism extends beyond individual incidents to a broader concern about media ethics and the impact on players. He argues that such comparisons are not only unfair to the players but also undermine the integrity of the PSL by constantly pitting it against the IPL. Shehzad calls for more respectful and relevant questioning that focuses on the game and performances rather than creating unnecessary controversies.
This issue highlights ongoing tensions in cricket media, where sensationalism often overshadows substantive sports journalism. As the PSL continues to grow, Shehzad's remarks serve as a reminder for media to prioritize player well-being and the spirit of the game.
