Pakistan opener Ahmed Shehzad broke down after being overlooked in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 draft.

The cricketer appeared as a guest on a private television programme, where former fast bowler Mohammad Amir was also present.

During the show, the host asked Shehzad about missing out on the PSL this season and in the previous two editions. In reply, he said he became emotional whenever he saw the tournament taking place.

Shehzad said he felt deep sorrow and wished to continue playing cricket. He said he felt happy to see his contemporaries taking part in the PSL but felt regret for himself and questioned the reasons behind his exclusion.

The batter said he had given 18 years to Pakistan cricket and found it painful that everything appeared to have ended suddenly. He said those memories often brought him to tears.

Expressing displeasure, Shehzad said no official from the cricket authorities had approached him to ask what had happened despite his long service. He added that had anyone come forward to settle matters, he would not have refused.

He said it did not suit him to make the first call himself, adding that for a player who had taken major decisions, dignity held great importance.

In an emotional moment, Shehzad said his greatest sorrow this year was that his nine-year-old son wished to see him play. He said his son slept beside him at night and tried to comfort him by saying he remembered watching him play and hoped to remember him properly this time.

Shehzad added that he was otherwise content, but this matter had deeply hurt him.