A dramatic twist has left cricket fans both baffled and concerned, Pakistan’s young fast-bowling prodigy Ihsanullah has threatened to walk away from the sport, not due to injury, poor form, or selection issues, but because of a falling out with a teenage friend.
Yes, you read that right.
The 22-year-old pacer, once hailed as the future of Pakistan’s pace attack, recently made headlines for stating he no longer wishes to play cricket because his young friend Abdullah is upset with him. In a now-viral interview, Ihsanullah openly admitted, “I’m not playing cricket because Abdullah isn’t talking to me.”
Ihsanullah burst into the cricketing world with raw pace and promise. During the 2023 PSL season, he delivered the fastest spell in tournament history, dominated for Multan Sultans, and bagged both Player of the Tournament and Bowler of the Tournament honors. His fiery performances even earned him a national call-up the same year.
But behind the rise was a painful reality. An elbow injury during a home series against New Zealand forced him out of action, followed by a difficult surgery and rehab period — marred by alleged medical mismanagement.
In 2025, he joined Peshawar Zalmi, but never made it to the playing XI in PSL 10. The sidelining added to his growing frustration — and now, a personal conflict with a friend has seemingly pushed him over the edge.
What’s more concerning is Ihsanullah’s recent behavior online. Several videos show him attempting to cry, speaking incoherently, and visibly distressed; these clips have sparked alarm bells across the cricketing community.
Mental health experts and fans alike are urging the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Peshawar Zalmi to step in. What may appear bizarre on the surface could be a symptom of deeper emotional or psychological distress.
Former players and analysts have joined the call, highlighting the need for serious mental health support and a psychiatric evaluation. With Ihsanullah being a national asset, many believe it’s the duty of the board to protect not just his career, but his well-being.
Read more: Babar Azam Resigns; Shan Masood and Shaheen Afridi Named New Captains
