Chief Selector leaves selection door open for Malik, Amir’s return

Pakistan’s newly-appointed chief selector, Haroon Rashid, has left the selection door open for the potential return of retired pacer Mohammad Amir and veteran all-rounder Shoaib Malik.

While speaking to Cricket Pakistan in an exclusive interview, Rashid said that Pakistan can explore the possibility of recalling experienced players like Malik for an important tournament.

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“You have to see which players can fit in your current combination. In fact, we also have to see if such player [Malik] can play any specific role in an important event, which can increase the possibility of Pakistan winning,” said Rashid.

“However, if a young player performs the same role, it can be debatable.” “But I have kept my position open regarding this topic and have not formed a specific strategy. Once my selection panel is formed, we will come with a specific selection policy,” he added.

The 69-year-old reiterated PCB chairman Najam Sethi’s stance regarding the selection of Amir. “I feel players should take decisions after careful consideration.

Your single statement can cause controversy,” he said. “In my opinion, players should focus on their cricket. There are a lot of players and every player considers themselves worthy of selection in playing XI, but it all depends on which players are suitable in certain conditions.”

“In Amir’s case, I am not sure about his status. I have heard he is thinking of taking his retirement back. It is good that he is playing. If he continues to perform, he will be in contention for selection like other players,” he concluded.

Last week, during a press conference, Sethi had said that he will not stop Amir if the former cricketer wanted to return to international cricket.

"Mohammad Amir can play international cricket for Pakistan if he takes his retirement back," said Sethi.

"I always took a strong stance against match-fixing. I believe no convicted player should be spared, but at the same time, a player should be allowed to resume international cricket once he has completed his years of penalty," he maintained.