The ongoing PSL 10 is full of drama—not just on the field but off it too. And this time, it’s veteran all-rounder Shoaib Malik, who finds himself at the center of attention.
Malik, currently donning the purple of Quetta Gladiators, is under fire from none other than former Pakistan batting maestro Mohammad Yousuf. The reason? Yousuf believes Malik shouldn’t even be playing in the league anymore.
Speaking out strongly, Yousuf questioned the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) clarity on player eligibility, especially after Malik took up a mentorship role with the Stallions during last year’s One-Day Cup.
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“The PCB needs to draw a line regarding Shoaib Malik playing in the PSL,” Yousuf said. “If you ask me to play, even I’ll play. Everyone wants to. But the board needs to decide who can and who can’t.”
The message was loud and clear—it’s time for the PCB to define who fits where in Pakistan’s domestic and franchise system. Can you mentor one season and play the next? Yousuf doesn’t think it should be that simple.
But not everyone is taking such a hard stance. Shahid Afridi, another senior voice in Pakistan cricket, took a more measured approach. While he didn’t dismiss Malik’s involvement outright, Afridi did suggest the 42-year-old consider stepping aside now and then.
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“He can still play if he wants,” Afridi said. “But maybe he should also skip a few matches. That’ll open up chances for youngsters who’ve worked hard to get here.”
That point about making space for emerging players is valid. PSL has always positioned itself as a platform for young talent, and with Malik’s recent form, it’s hard to ignore the noise. The all-rounder has had a forgettable start—just 14 runs in two matches and no wickets to his name.
To be fair, Malik’s presence brings experience and calm to a dressing room. But with Quetta Gladiators trying to find their rhythm early in the tournament, performance is what matters most. They’ve won one of their two matches so far, and their next clash is a big one—against Karachi Kings on April 18.
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