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Pakistan veteran all-rounder Shoaib Malik, on Sunday, claimed that he is not a liability in the team and feels he can still provide his services for two more years. While speaking to Cricket Pakistan, 40-year-old said that he remains in touch with Pakistan skipper Babar Azam and both have discussed the veteran's plans. "I told him that after how everything panned out during the T20I World Cup, I don't feel like continuing anymore," he said.
However, Malik admitted he still wants to represent his country and feels he can deliver the required game for two more years. Malik, who emerged as the fourth-highest run-getter in the recently concluded Pakistan Super League (PSL), said batting in the middle-overs was as tough as opening the innings, with running between the wicket is the key aspect that demands peak fitness. He expressed his gratitude towards the almighty for blessing him with fitness and keeping him from injuries.
"I am not claiming that opening is an easy task, but the field restriction is not there in the middle overs. That means you have to rely on running between the wickets a bit more; this is where your fitness truly comes in. You can always improve on fitness, but I want to thank God Almighty because, for me, it is something that is naturally instilled in me," he added.
However, he also reiterated, "Despite my age, no one can claim that I am a liability. I have delivered the performance at the highest level, especially in the T20 format, and I have proved my worth with the bat and ball. Also, no one can question me even in terms of fielding."
Malik also claimed that he is thoroughly enjoying his cricket as he is utilising his experience and intensity during the game. Malik also spoke about his relationship with Pakistan skipper Babar Azam at length. He said, "I have conveyed Babar to communicate with me. He suggested me to play the series against Bangladesh, and I did. Later, he informed me about letting youngsters get a chance, so I stepped aside and was rested for the series," he concluded.