Saqlain Mushtaq calls for a specialist system to produce world-class spinners for Pakistan

Former Pakistan Test spinner Saqlain Mushtaq has called for “a specialised and consistent system to develop world-class spinners”, saying the country has no shortage of talent but lacks the clear vision and expert coaching needed to turn it into match-winners.

Saqlain, one of Pakistan’s leading off-spinners and a former head coach of the national team, made the case for wide-ranging reforms in comments reported by The Express Tribune on Tuesday.

“Spin bowling is a specialised field”

At the heart of his argument was a simple point: spin bowling, he said, “was a specialised field” that needs dedicated experts who are given the freedom to do their work.

He set out what he believes is holding Pakistan back:

• A lack of professionalism in how the game is run
• An unwillingness to accept responsibility when things go wrong
• Too little mutual trust between those in the system
• Specialists not being used properly, even when they are available

What Saqlain wants to change

His remedy was a system built around expertise and patience:

• Specialists in charge: Each department should be led by experienced specialists with the authority to make decisions
• Continuity: Coaching must be continuous, with players developed over the long term rather than in short bursts
• Country first: National interest must come before personal agendas and blame-shifting

Help for Pakistani coaches

Saqlain also raised a practical problem that rarely gets attention. He called for better English-language support for Pakistani assistant coaches who work alongside foreign head coaches, warning that difficulty with technical terms could reduce how well coaching messages get across to players.

A message to former players and the media

The former spinner urged ex-cricketers and journalists to use their platforms responsibly. Constant negativity, he warned, could push young people away from Pakistan cricket altogether.

The Shadab Khan row

Saqlain also rejected allegations made by former spinner Tauseef Ahmed about the selection of all-rounder Shadab Khan. He clarified how communication had taken place and said he had met Shadab only rarely.

A busy season ahead

His comments come as Pakistan prepares for a packed home season:

• T20 internationals: A three-match series against Sri Lanka from October 9 to 13
• ODI tri-series: Seven matches against England and Sri Lanka from October 18 to 31, with three games in Rawalpindi and the rest, including the October 31 final, in Lahore. Jeff Crowe of New Zealand, a member of the ICC’s Elite Panel who recently officiated his 700th international match, will referee the series. Elite Panel umpires Ahsan Raza of Pakistan and Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid of Bangladesh are among the on-field umpires.
• Tests: A two-match World Test Championship series from November 9 to 21

Before that, Pakistan’s men’s team face Bangladesh in the Asian Games semi-finals on Thursday.

Why it matters

Pakistan has a proud tradition of spin bowling, and Saqlain, the man credited with popularising the doosra, speaks with authority on the subject. His call is for the system to match the talent: specialist coaches with real authority, long-term development and a shared commitment to putting Pakistan cricket first. Read our report on the Asian Games semi-final line-up.

This article draws on reporting by The Express Tribune.