‘This is not PSL, this is international cricket’ – Shoaib Malik slams Pakistan’s approach after 2nd T20I loss to England

The recent defeat of Pakistan against England in the second T20I in Birmingham has sparked criticism from veteran cricketer Shoaib Malik, who scrutinized the team management’s decisions and batting order. Malik did not hold back in expressing his views on how the Men in Green should approach their batting lineup and utilize their resources wisely ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024.

The 42-year-old cricketer’s criticism was around the team management’s decision to understand the difference between domestic leagues like the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and international cricket. He emphasized the importance of making wise decisions, especially with the marquee event around the corner.

He also suggested a revised batting order, proposing that Fakhar Zaman and Mohammad Rizwan should open the innings, followed by Babar Azam, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, and Shadab Khan. He believes that this combination would provide the right balance and utilize the players’ strengths effectively.

“This is not PSL this is international cricket that too, just before the T20 World Cup. IMO, the batting order should be… Fakhar Rizwan Babar Azam Iftkar Imad Shadab. Captain needs to utilize the options on the bench wisely,” Malik wrote on his X handle.

Also read: Pakistan stumble under pressure, England bag comfortable win at Edgbaston

Captain needs to utilize the options on the bench wisely: Shoaib Malik

The veteran all-rounder also highlighted the need to give sufficient time and overs to the finishers like Azam Khan and Iftikhar Ahmed. He believes that it is unfair to expect them to score at a rapid pace immediately, and they should be allowed to settle in before accelerating.

“Captain needs to utilize the options on the bench wisely. Moving forward, the captain should give time & enough overs to Azam & Iftikhar to settle first, expecting them to score 12-14 right away is unfair. All the best for the remaining matches,” he added.

Also read: Shaheen Afridi rejects Pakistan vice-captaincy offer

The second T20I witnessed the Three Lions post a total of 183/7 in their 20 overs. Thanks to a responsible knock of 84 from captain Jos Buttler and a small cameo from Will Jacks. Shaheen Afridi, Imad Wasim, and Haris Rauf shared seven wickets among them. However, the visitor’s batting lineup collapsed, as they were bundled out for 160, falling 23 runs short of the target.