Daily Times

KARACHI: Pakistan all-rounder Shoaib Malik has hit back at former fast-bowler Wasim Akram’s claim that the 34-year-old looked “disinterested” in matches during the tour of England this summer. Wasim had earlier commentated that Malik lacked leadership skills, stating that a senior player should have a more active attitude on the field. “Malik has really disappointed me,” said Wasim during match commentary. “He goes to third man in the field and stands out there. His job as a senior player should be to talk to the bowlers, help his captain and I have not seen that happening at all. From the outside he has looked disinterested and not very keen for most of the series.” When asked about Wasim’s comments, Malik said that the veteran bowler should have focused on the positives while commentating. “I understand that you have to talk about something when commentating, and when you don’t have anything then you have to come up with something which attracts people who are listening to you,” said Malik.

“However, I totally disagree with his statement but I respect him a lot. I would not expect these comments from a legend. I am sure he will realise this in the future and come up with something positive for us.” The all-rounder further said that he was a team player, citing the example of him batting wherever his captain ordered him to. “I am one of those who has batted everywhere in the top order,” he said. “I think for me the team comes first, so wherever the team needs me I am always up for that number.” Malik was selected in 15-man squad for the three-match T20I series against the West Indies in the UAE which commences this Friday.