The veteran cricketer Shoaib Malik has a piece of advice for Pakistan selectors. He wants that the selection of a player in the team should not be done based on few performances during the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
Recently, Malik earned the recall in the T20 squad against Bangladesh in the three-match T20I series. He showed impeccable performance against the Tigers and proved that he is still a game-changer for Pakistan.
Meanwhile, after impressing against Bangladesh, Malik will head to play the impending PSL edition which will start from 20 February.
PSL should not be the only criteria to pick the player: Shoaib Malik
According to Malik, PSL has importance in the player’s life as it grabs the much-needed attention from media and crowd. But he doesn’t want the league to become the sole criteria of selection.
“PSL is important for us as it is seen internationally and followed widely by the people and covered extensively by the media. But I would still emphasise don’t select anyone on one or two matches. Criteria should be strong to pick a player for Pakistan. I would say if a player gives some good performances make him play at least two or three seasons and let him perform consistency in them before considering him for selection,” Malik said.
Shoaib Malik on his retirement plan:
Meanwhile, the 38-year-old, who has already retired from Test and ODI format, doesn’t want to think much over his selection for the T20 World Cup in Australia which is scheduled in October this year.
Besides, he said that he will not hesitate to take retirement from the shortest format if he feels to do so soon.
“The World Cup is still far off and I think right now my focus is on the Pakistan Super League and coming matches for Pakistan. When I get closer to the World Cup I will see what to do,” Malik said.
“I will have to see my fitness and position in the national side closer to the World Cup than I will take a decision on final retirement.”
In the recently-held Bangladesh T20I series, Malik remained unbeaten and scored 58 runs, leading the team to victory while in the second ODI, he didn’t get the chance to bat.