Shoaib Malik opens up on key to success in HBL PSL

Peshwar Zalmi all-rounder Shoaib Malik believes that momentum is the key to success in the Habib Bank Limited (HBL) Pakistan Super League. 

While talking to Cricket Pakistan in an exclusive interview, Malik said that the teams which gain momentum during the latter stages of the tournament stand a good chance of winning the tournament. 

“I think all the teams are well-balanced but it depends which team gets the momentum towards the middle and backend of the tournament. The performances in the first few matches are not necessarily an indicator about which team will lift the title,” said Malik. 

The former Pakistan captain also heaped praise on Zalmi skipper Darren Sammy while talking about the latter’s fan following in Pakistan. 

“I have always played against him [Sammy] but I love his commitment level and the way he enjoys the game,” he said. “He has been playing for Zalmi for the past four seasons, which is also true for many other players representing the franchise, so he knows team well which is important for the side.” 

He also spoke about the relaxed atmosphere in the Zalmi camp, ahead of the fifth season of HBL PSL. 

“I have only taken part in one of their practice sessions so far but I have noticed that they give freedom to players and remain relaxed which is a good sign for any team,” he said.

The 38-year-old also reiterated that he is not bothered by playing solely as a player for the franchise and his stance on retirement from international cricket.    

“It does not matter whether I’m part of team purely as a player or captain because my responsibility, which is to help the side in accordance with the situation, remains the same,” he said. 

“Regarding my retirement from T20 cricket, I will take that decision when we get near to the World Cup but right now I’m keen on playing cricket until I’m enjoying it,” he concluded.