Credit: PCB
Former Pakistan batter Mohammad Yousuf has suggested the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) initiate a stern action against Shoaib Malik for his participation in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025. Malik is serving Quetta Gladiators in Pakistan’s premier T20 tournament. The 43-year-old’s presence in PSL 2025 wasn’t well received by his former Pakistan teammate Mohammad Yousuf, who feels the PCB should come up with a clarity on who can play in the tournament. Malik became the mentor of Pakistan’s domestic team Stallions for the One-Day Cup in 2024. Noting the fact, Yousuf expressed his dissent against Malik’s appearance in the ongoing T20 extravaganza.
"The PCB needs to draw a line regarding Shoaib Malik playing the PSL. If you ask me to play, even I'll play. I think the board needs to decide who can play and who can't. The board needs to make some decisions. Everyone wants to play," said Yousuf in a conversation with Samaa TV.
Shahid Afridi urges Shoaib Malik to make way for youngsters
Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi didn’t look stiff with his words against Malik but the former all-rounder feels the veteran should think about giving opportunities to youngsters. "He can play till whenever he wants to. I recently met him at the Academy of Moin Khan. He was coming back from training. At that time, the National Cup T20 was going on. Shoaib Malik can play some matches, but he should also miss a few games so that youngsters get their chance as they have performed to get here," remarked Afridi.
Malik hasn’t looked decent for Gladiators in PSL 2025, amassing only 14 runs with his bat in two outings. With the ball, he has failed to deliver any wicket to his side. Gladiators have won one game after playing two matches in the tournament. Their next contest will be against Karachi Kings on April 18.
