Veteran all-rounder, Shoaib Malik, and former fast bowler, Wasim Akram, have offered advice to Pakistan's young pace sensation, Naseem Shah, urging him to prioritize his rehabilitation and make a comeback to international cricket only when he has achieved full fitness.
While speaking on a local media channel, Shoaib specifically mentions Indian players as examples who have successfully made comebacks after recovering from injuries.
"In front of us, there are prime examples like KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah. They have come in fully fit, and you [Naseem Shah] are an asset for us. Please, please give him full time until he is 100% fit," Shoaib Malik said.
On the other hand, Wasim suggests that the right-arm pacer should take responsibility for his own decisions. He mentions Shah's extensive international cricket experience, starting from Under-19 career.
"He himself also has to learn, he has travel around the world, he has been playing cricket Internationally from Under-19 onwards for Pakistan, he should be able to make his own decisions," Wasim Akram said.
It is worth noting that the 20-year-old suffered an injury in a significant match against India in the Asia Cup 2023.
During the 46th over of the crucial match, Naseem had to leave the field on the reserve day due to an injury near his bowling shoulder.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) quickly verified the injury's severity, resulting in Shah's withdrawal from both the Asia Cup tournament and the 2023 World Cup. Hassan Ali was named as his replacement.