Former Pakistan batter Mohammad Yousuf has called on the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to take stern action against Shoaib Malik for his participation in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025.
Malik is currently representing Quetta Gladiators in the country’s premier T20 tournament.
However, his presence in PSL 2025 has not been well received by his former teammate, Mohammad Yousuf, who believes the PCB needs to clarify the eligibility criteria for players in the league.
In 2024, Malik was appointed as a mentor for the domestic side Stallions during the One-Day Cup. Citing this role, Yousuf expressed his disapproval of Malik’s continued involvement as a player in the ongoing T20 competition.
“The PCB needs to draw a line regarding Shoaib Malik playing in the PSL. If you ask me to play, even I’ll play. I think the board needs to decide who can play and who can’t. The board needs to make some decisions. Everyone wants to play,” said Yousuf.
Meanwhile, former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi did not speak harshly about Malik but suggested that the veteran should consider stepping aside to allow opportunities for younger players.
“He can play for as long as he wants to. I recently met him at Moin Khan’s Academy. He was coming back from training. At that time, the National T20 Cup was going on. Shoaib Malik can play some matches, but he should also skip a few games so that youngsters get their chance, as they have performed well to reach this stage,” Afridi said.
It is pertinent to mention that the veteran all-rounder has had a disappointing run for the Gladiators in the ongoing tournament, scoring only 14 runs in two outings and failing to take a wicket with the ball.
Quetta Gladiators have won one out of their two matches so far. Their next fixture is against Karachi Kings on April 18.
Akmal blasts PCB
Pakistan’s Test cricketer Umar Akmal has strongly criticised the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on unfair treatment of players based on age.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Akmal pointed out that players like himself, Ahmed Shehzad and Sohaib Maqsood, all nearing 35 years of age, are being sidelined for being “too old,” whereas players, older than them, are playing in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 10.
“We are Ahmed Shehzad told that we are too old to play or even mentor the team. But players who are 45 years old are still playing. What are we supposed to do? Shoot ourselves?” angry Akmal lambasted.
He also made serious claims about fitness standards, stating that many senior players and coaches have never taken proper fitness tests. “Ask me, I’ve been with them; I’ve played for Pakistan. They never took fitness tests,” said Akmal while also suggesting to bring equality.
Akmal, while being indirect, took a dig at veteran all-rounder Shoaib Malik, who is currently playing for Quetta Gladiators in PSL 10.
“I respect seniors because they gave me chances, but Pakistan should be the priority. If senior players keep playing domestic cricket just to prepare for PSL, where does that leave young talent?” he asked.
Akmal called for a major overhaul in the PCB’s management, saying the same officials have been making poor decisions for years. “These people just take salaries while players suffer because of their mistakes. This system needs to change,” he stressed.
He also linked the empty stadiums during PSL 10 matches with the PCB’s selection policies. “Fans want to see star players, not unknown names. If you don’t respect your renowned players, why should fans come to watch?” he argued.
Turning to Pakistan captain Babar Azam’s recent struggles, Akmal suggested that he should bat at number 3 for better performance. “Babar is a great player, but if he doesn’t adapt majors for improvement, it will become a big problem for him. PSL 10 is crucial for his future – he must improve his game to prove himself to the PCB and fans,” he concluded.
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