WEBDESK: Veteran all-rounder Shoaib Malik’s inclusion in the Sialkot squad in the upcoming National T20 Cup has sparked controversy, with fans saying that his place comes at the expense of young talent.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced the tournament’s squads earlier this week, with the competition set to begin on March 14.
Following the squad announcement, fans expressed concerns over Shoaib Malik’s selection , particularly as several young players including Azan Awais, Ali Shafique, Awais Ali, Ayaz Tasawar, and Shahzaib Bhatti were put in the reserves.
According to fans, Azan Awais was more deserving of the spot. Awais scored 1,422 runs in the recent domestic season. He averaged 56.9 and even boasts an U19 century against India. Critics argue that Malik, at 43, should step aside for younger talent.
Former Pakistan batter Salman Butt also questioned Malik’s selection, saying:
“This National T20 is a stepping stone for youngsters. There should be some logic behind Shoaib Malik playing in this tournament, but I don’t see that logic.”
Initially selected as mentors, Shoaib Malik, Wahab Riaz, and Sarfaraz Ahmed were later added to the playing squads for Sialkot, Karachi, and Lahore, respectively. In response to the criticism, Wahab Riaz and Sarfaraz Ahmed have withdrawn their names from the National T20 cup.
The controversy comes amid Pakistan cricket’s struggles in recent ICC tournaments, with disappointing performances in two World Cups and the Champions Trophy. The PCB’s decision to favour veteran players over emerging talent has led to increased scrutiny.
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