Shoaib Malik wants to be the most consistent version of himself in PSL 2020

By
Faizan Lakhani
Photo: AFP

Senior all-rounder Shoaib Malik ha said that his target for the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2020 is to be the most consistent version of himself.

Malik, who moved from Multan Sultans to Peshawar Zalmi in the off-season, said that he was in good form in various leagues this season and hoped to remain that way in this year's PSL.

"Being a senior player, I want to maintain consistency in my performance. I have been performing well in other leagues throughout and now is our own league and it is important for me to maintain that," said Malik. 

"As a cricketer, his goal should be to avail each and every opportunity he gets."

When asked about receiving criticism, the 38-year-old said that the comments no longer bothered him and is "part and parcel" of any sportsman. 

"Criticism is part and parcel of any player, it has now become a part of daily routine. I am not insecure that's why I am not scared of any criticism, there is nothing important than donning Pakistan's star on the chest," he expressed.

Malik hailed his Zalmi teammate and West Indies' star Daren Sammy for his part in supporting the PSL.

"Sammy has been always very supportive of Pakistan. We all love Sammy. He also brings fun and entertainment to the game and that's very important for the league,"

He also brushed aside talks of his retirement saying that the decision would be made only when the time comes.

"I don't have any retirement plan. I am playing leagues, I have my contracts so there's no thought about retirement. As far as internationals is concerned I will think about that after T20 World Cup," he said.

"There's no post-world cup plan as yet. Yes, I did say in the past that World T20 would be my last tournament but that's not final. I will consider my future when the world cup is around the corner," Shoaib said.

Furthermore, he said that retirement was every athlete's right. 

"Only the player can understand when he is no more able to contribute and it is the time to hang his boots," he concluded.