LAHORE- Former Pakistan captain and all-rounder Shoaib Malik believes that if the Pakistan Cricket Board succeeds in launching its own Twenty20 league, the benefits would be manifold, including revival of international cricket in the country.
“The other benefits would include financial benefits for the domestic level players and the chance for youngsters to play alongside internationals and learn from their experience,” Malik told reporters here. He said the Indian and Bangladeshi players have already got these benefits after the launch of the Indian Premier League and Bangladesh Premier League.
“Both leagues have helped the new and younger players in both countries in many ways. It has benefited them playing with international stars.”
“T20 cricket is already very popular in Pakistan and we have a strong history of doing well in this format of the game. We have been world champions and our people love this format,” he added.
Malik said this was one reason why he kept on urging authorities to allow the Sialkot Stallions team (the national T20 champions of Pakistan) to take part in the Champions League this year. “I hope the Sialkot team can play in the Champions League it would be great for Pakistan cricket.” Malik said he was working hard on making a strong comeback to the national team.
“The domestic season has ended but I am focusing a lot on club matches and taking them very seriously.” Malik said he had been training hard in the last couple of weeks and hoped the selectors would consider him for the coming tour to Sri Lanka. “I am also looking forward to this tour as it will allow me to prove myself in any format of the game.”