Former Pakistan cricketer Ahmed Shehzad has voiced strong disapproval of the local media's persistent questioning of foreign players regarding comparisons between the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
Shehzad Calls Out Mendis Interview
Shehzad specifically referenced an interview with Sri Lankan cricketer Kusal Mendis, who is currently participating in the PSL. Mendis was reportedly asked about his decision to leave the PSL midway through the previous season to join the IPL's Gujarat Titans, with a reporter inquiring if he had any “regrets” and mentioning alleged “security concerns.”
“Kusal Mendis is playing, performing in PSL, and he is being asked questions like 'sir, last time you left and went to IPL, what do you think about that?' Look at what kind of questions they are asking,” Shehzad stated, criticizing the nature of the inquiry.
Rossouw's 'IPL is a Movie' Comment
The former Pakistan batter also brought up comments made by South African cricketer Rilee Rossouw. Rossouw, also playing in the PSL, had described the IPL as “more of a movie than actual cricket.” Shehzad interpreted this as a consequence of the pressure players face, suggesting that no cricketer would openly praise the IPL while actively playing in the PSL.
“Look at Rilee Rossouw — there is no clarity about his performances (in PSL), but he has made statements. And when he was asked about IPL — that what do you think about IPL — so while playing PSL, you obviously cannot praise IPL. So in that, he said, 'Oh, that is a Bollywood movie. The cricket is happening here in PSL,'” Shehzad explained, emphasizing the predicament foreign players face.
The Broader Debate on League Comparisons
Shehzad's comments highlight an ongoing debate within cricket circles, particularly in Pakistan, about the perceived rivalry between the IPL and PSL. He urged journalists to focus on more relevant cricketing topics rather than forcing players into awkward comparisons that could affect their professional relationships or public perception.