Former Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik has withdrawn from the remaining matches of the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). However, Shoaib Malik’s absence from the tournament is not related to recent rumors about his involvement in controversial match-fixing.
Shoaib Malik played for Fortune Barishal in the ongoing T20 tournament in Bangladesh. According to reports from the Bangladeshi media, Malik faced contract termination by the franchise over alleged match-fixing suspicions during a match against the Khulna Riders.
The 41-year-old made headlines for bowling three no-balls in an over against the Khulna Tigers. The spinner conceded 18 runs, including two boundaries and a six, in the only over he bowled. Unfortunately, Fortune Barishal lost the match against the Tigers by eight wickets.
I Had A Thorough Discussion With Tamim Iqbal – Shoaib Malik
Shoaib Malik addressed circulating rumors on social media about the termination of his contract due to match-fixing suspicions. In his statement, Malik clarified that the decision to leave Bangladesh was related to his pre-committed media engagement in Dubai.
“I would like to address and dismiss the recent rumors circulating about my playing position with Fortune Barishal. I had a thorough discussion with our captain, Tamim Iqbal, and we mutually planned the way forward. I had to leave Bangladesh for a pre-committed media engagement in Dubai,” Malik wrote.
Official statement ;
I would like to address and dismiss the recent rumors circulating about my playing position with Fortune Barishal. I had a thorough discussion with our captain, Tamim Iqbal, and we mutually planned the way forward. I had to leave Bangladesh for a… pic.twitter.com/kmPqPt1nxv— Shoaib Malik 🇵🇰 (@realshoaibmalik) January 26, 2024
Malik would miss the remaining BPL games due to personal reasons. Pakistan batter Ahmed Shehzad will replace him in the Fortune Barishal squad for the remaining matches of BPL 2024.
Strongly Refute These Baseless Rumors – Shoaib Malik
Malik expressed his best wishes to Fortune Barishal for their upcoming matches. The all-rounder urged everyone to verify the information before spreading it. Malik underscored the significance of relying on credible sources for accurate information.
“I extend my best wishes to Fortune Barishal for their upcoming matches, and if needed, I am available to support them if needs be. I have always found joy in playing the game and will continue to do so.”
“I want to emphasize the importance of exercising caution when it comes to rumors, especially those circulating recently. I want to make it clear that I strongly refute these baseless rumors. It’s crucial for everyone to verify information before believing and spreading it. Falsehoods can harm reputations and create unnecessary confusion. Let’s prioritize accuracy and rely on credible sources to ensure a clear understanding of the facts. Thank you for your understanding and diligence. Thank you for your love & support as always.”
The veteran all-rounder made history by becoming the first Asian and second overall player to reach 13,000 runs in T20 cricket. He accomplished this milestone during the BPL match against Rangpur Riders, with Chris Gayle being the only other player to achieve this feat.
Shoaib Malik represented Pakistan in 35 Tests, 287 ODIs, and 124 T20Is, scoring 1898 runs, 7534 runs, and 2435 runs, respectively. He also contributed with the ball, taking more than 200 wickets across formats. He last played for Pakistan in a T20I match in November 2021.
