Pakistan all-rounder Shoaib Malik revealed that he turned down an invitation from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to join the senior men’s selection committee. Malik’s decision came just ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. Despite his extensive experience and knowledge, Malik opted not to take on the selection role, choosing instead to focus on other aspects of his career. This decision adds another chapter to Malik’s long-standing and distinguished involvement in Pakistan cricket.
Shoaib Malik Declines Selector Role:
Pakistan had a disappointing run in the T20 World Cup, being knocked out in the group stage after losses to the USA and India. Although Shoaib Malik hasn’t formally announced his retirement from international cricket, he has been absent from the national team since November 2021.
Malik recently declined an offer to join the selection committee, citing his ongoing participation in domestic T20 cricket as the reason. He believed that his active playing career would conflict with the responsibilities required for a selector role, making it difficult to manage both effectively. Malik’s decision reflects his commitment to continue playing while ensuring that the selection process remains unbiased.
He said, “ I got an offer before the 2024 T20 World Cup. There was no chief selector then and the entire committee had the same power. Yes, I got the offer. However, I am still playing some cricket. How can I select the cricketers with whom I am playing currently? It does not make sense to me that you are playing as well and are part of the selection committee too.”
Shoaib Malik Also Talked About His Retirement:
Shoaib Malik has subtly hinted at his retirement from international cricket, indicating that he no longer seeks to represent Pakistan on the field. His statements suggest that his career at the international level has come to a close, signaling that his focus may have shifted away from playing for the national team.
He further said, “ I currently play just one format, and I will surely play in the domestic T20 competition. I think I can still play at the domestic level. That way, I can share my experience in a better way with the players. I have already said that I am not interested in playing for Pakistan.”
He added, “ I have already retired from Tests and ODIs. I have no interest in being part of Pakistan’s T20I team. Yes, I will continue playing at the domestic level. There are a few places where I still go and play, but I have already communicated to some leagues that I won’t be available. Regarding my retirement, I will leave it all at once.”
Shoaib Malik’s Great Career:
Shoaib Malik had an outstanding international career, donning Pakistan’s colors in 35 Tests, 287 ODIs, and 124 T20Is. Renowned for his exceptional batting prowess, he amassed a total of 11,867 runs across these formats. His achievements include 12 centuries, marking him as one of Pakistan’s most versatile and accomplished cricketers. Malik’s contributions have left a lasting legacy in the cricketing world, reflecting his skill and dedication to the sport.
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