Malik makes way for Bopara to lead Kings in PSL playoffs

DUBAI: Karachi Kings captain Shoaib Malik announced on Friday that he is stepping aside from captaincy, making the way for seasoned England all-rounder Ravi Bopara to lead the side in playoff stage in the inaugural edition of Pakistan Super League (PSL).

Speaking at a press conference here, Malik said he was unable to concentrate on his performance with added responsibility of captaining the side. He said he was stepping aside voluntarily and had no differences with anyone including incoming skipper Bopara among the Kings ranks.

“This decision is only for 2016 season… I am always available for national duty,” said the Pakistani all-rounder.

“This decision may help Karachi Kings team regroup for rest of the matches. I believe that this would help me focus more on my individual game.”

It may be mentioned here that Bopara had criticised Malik’s decision to bat first in a match against Peshawar Zalmi, which the Kings lost comprehensively by 5 wickets.

Expressing his disappointment over the team’s overall performance in the tournament at a press conference, Bopara said that they did not deserve to qualify for the playoff round.