Shoaib Malik becomes first Asian player to score 13,000 runs in T20 cricket

Veteran Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Malik has been making many headlines recently after his marriage to actress Sana Javed. There were already a lot of rumours of his divorce from Indian tennis star Sania Mirza before his second wedding took place.

With his personal life sparking debate on the internet, the 41-year-old has struck up a brilliant record on the field, becoming the first Asian player ever to reach the 13000-run milestone in T20 cricket. He also became the second overall player to reach the milestone.

The veteran batter achieved the feat during a Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2024 match between Fortune Barishal and Rangpur Riders, joining Chris Gayle on the elite list.

Malik has already retired from Test and ODI cricket but continues to compete in the shortest format and will also be available for selection in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024.

Fortune Barishal makes a big stride in the BPL standings

Fortune Barishal took on Rangpur Riders in game three of the BPL 2024. The clash began with Riders coming in to bat first after losing the toss. Barishal put forth a brilliant showing and limited their opponents to a total of 134 runs in the first innings, with Shamim Hossain being the highest run-getter with a score of 34 runs.

As for Barishal, Khaled Ahmed was the highest wicket-taker with four wickets to his name; Mehidy Hasan Miraz took two wickets, with Mohammad Imran, Dunith Wellalage, and Shoaib Malik striking once each.

Aiming to chase down the target, Barishal put forth an excellent showing. Tamim Iqbal opened the innings with a score of 35 runs, Mehidy Hasan Miraz added 20 runs on the board with Malik adding 17 runs as Barishal won the game by five wickets and made their way to second place in the BPL standings. With one win in one game, Barishal sit just behind Chattogram Challengers who occupy first place in the standings.