ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s former captain Shahid Afridi has come out in support of former star all-rounder Shoaib Malik’s continued involvement in the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL), following public criticism from Pakistan’s batting coach Mohammad Yousuf, who questioned the 43-year-old’s ongoing role as a player.
Malik, currently turning out for the Quetta Gladiators in the ongoing 2025 edition of the PSL, has found himself at the centre of debate after former Pakistan batter Yousuf voiced concerns over his participation in the league.
During a recent appearance on a television cricket show, Yousuf questioned the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) policy on allowing senior players like Malik to compete.
“The PCB needs to set clear boundaries regarding Shoaib Malik’s involvement in the PSL,” Yousuf remarked. “If you ask me to play, I’d consider playing too.”
Creating a conflict of interest
He further suggested that the PCB must make definitive decisions on eligibility criteria for PSL players, hinting that Malik’s simultaneous roles as player and mentor could pose a potential conflict of interest.
Malik was previously appointed as a mentor for the Stallions in last year’s Champions One-Day Cup, working alongside Misbah-ul-Haq, Saqlain Mushtaq, and Sarfaraz Ahmed.
The topic gained momentum when the show’s host asked both Yousuf and Afridi when they believed Malik should step away from the game. Afridi, however, backed his former teammate.
“He should be free to play as long as he wishes,” Afridi said. “Shoaib Malik can feature in a few matches, but he should also sit some out to give young players a chance.”
Limiting opportunities for emerging talent
When the anchor pointed out that Malik’s inclusion could limit opportunities for emerging talent, Afridi conceded, “Yes, you’re right. What else can I say?”
To date, in the 2025 PSL season, Malik has played two matches, scoring just 14 runs and failing to take a wicket.
His last appearance for Pakistan came in a T20I against Bangladesh in 2021.
The discussion underscores a broader debate within Pakistan cricket over how best to balance the presence of seasoned campaigners with the need to create space for the next generation in domestic competitions.
