‘If Babar asks me to play then I will play otherwise …’ - Malik on his T20 WC chances

Veteran Pakistani all-rounder Shoaib Malik is open to featuring in the ICC T20 World Cup 2022, scheduled to be hosted by Australia later this year, but only if skipper Babar Azam requires his services.

Malik was an integral part of Pakistan’s campaign in the T20 World Cup held last year. In the Group Stage match against Scotland, the 40-year old struck the fastest-ever fifty for the Men in Green, remaining unbeaten on 54 off 18 balls.

Now, in the twilight of his career, Malik wishes to retire with dignity and respect. Hence, he has not been brooding over World Cup participation. If Babar does not want him in the squad, he would gracefully ‘step aside’.

In an interview with Cricket Pakistan, Malik said, “As I said, I have clear and open communication with Babar. I have not made up my mind about the World Cup because I want to retire with respect. If Babar asks me to play, then I will play; otherwise, I will step aside respectfully.”

The all-rounder was not included for the one-off T20 against the Aussies, making his future depend significantly on the Pakistan skipper’s decision.

The Pakistani skipper has been in the limelight for accumulating runs at will. Meanwhile, Malik - now the T20 specialist cricketer - last featured in a PSL game back in February.