One can make a difference without being captain: Malik

Pakistan all-rounder Shoaib Malik has said that he can make a difference without being the captain of the national side.

While speaking in an exclusive interview with Cricket Pakistan, Malik backed Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)’s decision to name Sarfaraz Ahmed as captain for the 2019 World Cup in England and Wales. 

“I don’t think that you can make a difference only by becoming captain,” said Malik. “I always try to help the youngsters by guiding them and sharing my experiences with them. I would also like to mention once again that I’m only going to represent Pakistan as a player till the day I retire from the game.”

He added: “I was never eyeing the Pakistan captaincy role and the reason why I accepted the offer to lead the side, after Sarfaraz was banned, was because the team needed me. I’m happy that the PCB quashed all rumours by naming Sarfaraz as captain for the 2019 World Cup in England and Wales.”

Malik was also satisfied with the progress made by Pakistan Super League (PSL), since its first edition in 2016.

“PSL is moving in the right direction,” he said. “With every passing year, there is gradual improvement in the quality of the league which is a positive sign for Pakistan cricket.”

The former Pakistan captain — who will be leading Multan Sultans in the fourth edition of PSL — was also keen on putting up a better show in the fourth edition of the league.

“Last year the average age of our squad was 35 and on top of that we played six games in nine days, which made the recovery process difficult for our players,” he said. “This year we will adopt a better rotation policy so that players don’t burn out quickly.”

While speaking about the inclusion of former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi in the Sultans’ squad, Malik said: “I like Shahid Afridi’s dedication towards the game and his addition in our squad will benefit us. He even has a personal trainer to look after his diet and training which is commendable.”

Malik also shared his future plans after bringing the curtain down on his international career.

“I would like to do a TV show once I retire from international cricket,” he said. “I think there is not enough quality content regarding the technical aspect of cricket and this is something I would like to highlight through my show.”