Pakistan’s veteran all-rounder, Shoaib Malik, has made a return to the domestic cricket circuit and is set to represent Sialkot Region in the National T20 Cup after a considerable hiatus.
The 42-year-old cricketer is aiming to secure a spot in the Pakistan national cricket team for the 2024 World Cup, and to achieve this goal, he is placing emphasis on performing well in domestic competitions.
Shoaib Malik, a former captain, will lead the Sialkot Region, leveraging his experience and track record of winning numerous tournaments for his side in the past. As part of his preparation for the upcoming T20 Cup, Malik will also participate in practice matches.
The National T20 Cup is scheduled to commence on November 24, with the opening match between Lahore Region Whites and Peshawar Region set to take place in Karachi. Malik’s return to the domestic circuit signals his commitment to showcasing his skills and form with the hope of earning a place in the national squad for the 2024 World Cup.
PCB Announces Umar Gul And Saeed Ajmal As Men’s Bowling Coaches In Major Overhaul
Meanwhile, in a significant move to revamp the team management, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed former cricketing stalwarts Umar Gul and Saeed Ajmal as Men’s bowling coaches. This decision comes in the aftermath of Pakistan’s early exit from the World Cup 2023.
As per an official press release, Umar Gul will assume the role of fast bowling coach, while Saeed Ajmal will be responsible for coaching the spinners. Their first assignments in these capacities include the upcoming Test series against Australia (scheduled from December 14, 2023, to January 7, 2024) and the T20I series against New Zealand (from January 12 to 21, 2024).
This marks Umar Gul’s second stint as the Green Team’s coach, following his earlier role during the T20I series against Afghanistan in March and the subsequent home series against New Zealand in May.
Both former cricketers bring valuable coaching experience from the Pakistan Super League, where Ajmal served as the bowling coach for Islamabad United, and Gul took on the same role for Quetta Gladiators.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Umar Gul stated, “I am pleased to join as the bowling coach of the Pakistan team and feel honored to contribute to Pakistan cricket. Having had previous working experience with the men’s side, I will bring my coaching expertise with the aim of elevating Pakistan’s bowling prowess to new heights.”
