Picture Credit: Twitter
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) recently announced few changes in their 2021 T20 World Cup squad ahead of the October 10 deadline. While there have been a few tactical replacements, they have also been forced to make an additional change following an unfortunate injury to batter Sohaib Maqsood. The board realized the need to get some experience into the side considering the situation, and therefore decided to rope in veteran all-rounder Shoaib Malik in the 15-member squad.
"In his (Sohaib Maqsood) place and following discussions with the team management, we have decided to include Shoaib Malik in the side. I am sure Shoaib's experience will be handy for the entire squad," chief selector Muhammad Wasim said in the PCB release.
While fans were indeed delighted to see Malik in the side for the mega event, the Pakistani media gave him a hilarious tribute to reflect on his great legacy.
One of the best tribute videos of all time?
In a special segment of news channel Samaa TV, the anchor can be seen introducing Shoaib Malik as the cricketer who has seen 4 decades in his career (since his debut in 1999). She reflects on the fact that so much might have changed in the world but Shoaib Malik remained constant in Pakistan's side.
This was followed by the tribute video which stated, "Nawaz Sharif gaye, Musharraf aaye, Zardari gaye, fir Nawaz Sharif aaye, daur badla, Khan aa gaye par na badla toh Shoaib Malik... 1999 mein 15 ₨ milne vala petrol 130 par aa gaya, Antenna vale phone ki jagah Android aa gaya, iphone aa gaya, dish ka daur gaya, Internet ne sab badalkar duniya ko global village bana diya, par na badla toh Shoaib Malik."
Watch the video here:
Shoaib Malik will strengthen Pakistan's squad in the mega event
There is certainly no doubt that Shoaib Malik is a legendary cricketer who has been a great servant for Pakistan over the years. Having made his debut in 1999, the 39-year-old has represented his national side in 35 Tests, 287 ODIs and 116 T20Is. With more than 10,000 runs and 200 wickets behind his name, Malik is surely going to add plethora of experience to the young Pakistan squad during the 2021 T20 World Cup.