At the moment, I am as fit as I have ever been: Shoaib Malik
In an interview to PakPassion.net, Shoaib Malik, the veteran Pakistani all rounder has claimed that he is feeling like his fitness is still at its peak now, and he still has goals in mind. He expressed his desire to work in the media once he hangs up his boots.
He said, “At the moment I am as fit as I have ever been, I’m still very hungry to play cricket and have a few more goals that I would like to achieve before retiring. But when my Cricket days do come to an end I would like to work in the media. Maybe have my own show and also do some commentary or studio work.”
As expected, Malik was asked about his views on the resumption of India-Pakistan Cricket, to which the former Pakistan captain replied, “I think the world badly needs this rivalry to resume, in the same way that world cricket needs the Ashes. Could England and Australia imagine Test Cricket without an Ashes series? Both series are played with the same kind of passion and have such a great history, so it is a shame that we don’t play right now. Also, I have Pakistani friends who love to talk about Indian cricketers with respect and admiration. Similarly, I and my Pakistan team-mates are given such love and support when we play in India so it is a rivalry that I would like to see return as soon as it is possible.”
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The last time the two sub continental arch rivals came across each other in a bilateral series was way back in 2007, when Pakistan toured India for a 5 match ODI series and a 3 match Test series. The hosts came out on top on both formats. Since then, the two teams have only clashed in tri nation, continental or global tournaments.
Malik then went on to talk about Pakistan’s chances of winning the T20 World Cup which is scheduled to take place in Australia starting from the 18th of October, although there are doubts over it amid the health crisis. The Sialkot born all rounder said, “I believe our chances are very good. In order to win these kinds of events, you have to have a very strong bowling attack and I think we have that box ticked. In addition, we also have a good batting line-up to complement that strong bowling attack. Not only that, but our fielding has also developed and improved over the years, which is important on big grounds. Our fitness is much improved and better than it was in previous years, so overall, I think we will be right up there as a team that stands a very good chance of winning this tournament if it goes ahead.”
Malik will be next seen in action in Pakistan’s tour of England to play 3 Tests and as many T20Is during August to September.