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Veteran all-rounder Shoaib Malik has disclosed that he declined an offer from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to join the selection committee for the senior men's team. This decision was made shortly before the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024.
Shoaib Malik admits turning down down selector role
Unfortunately, Pakistan's performance in the tournament was disappointing, as they were eliminated from the group stage following losses to the USA and India. While Malik hasn't officially confirmed his retirement from international cricket, he hasn't played for Pakistan since November 2021.
The reason behind Malik's rejection of the selector role was his continued involvement in domestic T20 cricket. He felt that his active playing status would make it challenging to fulfill the responsibilities of a selector effectively.
“I got an offer before the 2024 T20 World Cup. There was no chief selector then and the entire committee had the same power,” he told reporters.
"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," he added.
Malik hints at retirement
Shoaib Malik, aged 42, effectively signaled his retirement from international cricket. He expressed a lack of interest in continuing to represent Pakistan, suggesting that his playing days are behind him.
“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,” he further stated.
"I have already said that I am not interested in playing for Pakistan. 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," he concluded.
Malik's impressive International career
Shoaib Malik enjoyed a remarkable international career, representing Pakistan in a total of 35 Tests, 287 ODIs, and 124 T20Is. His exceptional batting skills helped him accumulate 11,867 runs across all formats, including 12 centuries.
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