At a time when new faces are joining the national team, former Pakistan skipper Shoaib Malik believes that he would still be able to win a place back in the national side. Talking to reporters on the sidelines of 6-A-Side tournament held at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi, Malik remained confident of winning a place in the team sooner rather than later.
“I’m working hard, in fact in the last first-class season I scored more than 800 runs in seven matches at an average of almost 100, so I’m still hoping and working hard to get into the team. I’m sure I will get my chance, and will try to do well for the country and the team,” he said. He further added: “I’m a professional cricketer, and cricket is my passion. Even though I’m not playing for the national team I am still working hard, and I just want to see myself satisfied. I’m sure there is a series after the West Indies and I still feel I can play international cricket for another 6-8 years.”
“I have played in all the formats and I have done well.” He further said: “Wherever I get a chance to play cricket, I will go there.”
“But honestly I am not looking for county cricket,” he stated. “I have two months off where I can train hard and make myself fitter. I took part in yoga classes in India during the World Cup, and I just want to focus on my cricket. I want to be mentally stronger, and that only comes when you are physically strong.”
