"Despite my age, no one can claim that I am a liability" - Shoaib Malik not thinking about retirement

Pakistan veteran all-rounder Shoaib Malik believes that even at the age of 40, he is not a liability and can still play T20 cricket. The former Pakistan captain also desires to play in this year's T20 World Cup should Babar Azam want it.

Malik, who debuted at the top level in 1999, is perhaps the oldest active international cricketer. While the 40-year old has retired from Tests and ODIs, he continues to represent Pakistan and shine in T20 cricket. The veteran, a late replacement in Pakistan's 2021 T20 World Cup squad, averaged 50 in six games, striking at 181.81.

Speaking to Cricket Pakistan, Malik insisted he has delivered credible performances at the highest level and is enjoying his cricket. The spin-bowling all-rounder stated:

"Despite my age, no one can claim that I am a liability. I have performed at the highest level – especially in the T20 format –and I have shown my worth with the ball, with the bat, and especially in the field. I am thoroughly enjoying my cricket right now because I am utilising all my experience and intensity during the games."

The Sialkot-born cricketer finished PSL 2022 as the fourth-highest run-getter, smashing 401 runs in 11 games at 44.55. He struck at 137.32 with three half-centuries.

"I have not made up my mind about the World Cup because I want to retire with respect" - Shoaib Malik

Pakistan v Scotland (Credits: Getty)

Speaking about his bonding with Babar Azam, Malik said they have clear lines of communication with one another. The 40-year old said he intends to play the T20 World Cup Down Under and demanded clarity from the skipper regarding his future.

"We do talk on regular basis and we had the conversation about my future plans during the World Cup, I told him that after how everything panned out – I don’t feel like continuing anymore. However, if you ask me personally then of course I still want to represent my country. As I said, I have clear and open communication with Babar."

Malik added:

"I have not made up my mind about the World Cup because I want to retire with respect. If Babar asks me to play then I will play otherwise I will step aside respectfully."

Pakistan were the most dominant side in last year's T20 World Cup in the UAE. They remained unbeaten until the semi-finals when Australia knocked them out.