Shoaib Malik has been criticised by his former teammates for flouting the ‘age rule’ in HBL PSL X . PHOTO: APP
Shoaib Malik has introduced his retirement from the Pakistan Tremendous League (PSL), bringing an finish to a enjoying journey that has run uninterrupted because the event’s inception in 2016.
The choice comes forward of the landmark PSL season 11, marking the shut of a decade-long affiliation between considered one of Pakistan’s most enduring cricketers and its flagship T20 league.
Malik confirmed the information by way of his social media platforms, reflecting on the reminiscences and relationships constructed over ten seasons of the PSL.
“I cherish each single second and friendship I’ve made on and off the sector all through my 10 years of the Pakistan Tremendous League as a participant,” Malik wrote. “It’s time to name it a day. Nonetheless, my ardour and motivation to serve for the betterment of cricket will at all times keep. Thanks PSL.”
Few gamers have been as constant a presence within the league as Malik. From the early days when the PSL was performed within the UAE to its development into a completely home-based event, Malik remained a daily characteristic, representing 4 franchises throughout his profession — Karachi Kings, Multan Sultans, Peshawar Zalmi and Quetta Gladiators.
His ultimate look got here for Quetta Gladiators in PSL 10, closing the loop on a profession outlined by adaptability and longevity.
Statistically, Malik departs as some of the prolific performers in PSL historical past. He’s the fourth-highest run-scorer within the league, having amassed 2,350 runs in 92 matches at a formidable common of 33.09.
Typically deployed within the center order, Malik was valued for his means to manage innings, end video games and supply steadiness together with his part-time offspin. He additionally claimed 17 wickets within the event, underlining his all-round contribution.
Past the PSL, Malik’s broader T20 report additional contextualises his influence. He’s the sixth-highest run-scorer in T20 cricket total, with 13,571 runs, together with 83 half-centuries, at a strike fee of 127.24 — numbers that talk to each sturdiness and consistency throughout leagues worldwide.
Whereas Malik’s enjoying days within the PSL are over, his assertion suggests this isn’t a farewell to cricket altogether.
Because the league enters a brand new period with growth and structural adjustments, it does so with out considered one of its most acquainted figures — a participant whose expertise helped bridge generations and whose affect prolonged effectively past the scorecard.
