Shoaib Malik “hugely disappointed” over exclusion from preliminary WC squad

ISLAMABAD - Former Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik has expressed disappointment over being ignored by selectors for the preliminary World Cup squad, saying that missing the mega event is “a big setback” for him.

“It is hugely disappointing not to be selected in the World Cup squad and what is more strange is that neither the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) nor the national selectors have given any reason for ignoring me,” the Daily Times quoted Malik, as saying.

“I was mentally prepared to be selected, as I am in good form and am performing well in the domestic cricket. But I don’t know why they didn’t pick me,” he added.

Malik, however, maintained that his career was far from over, and hoped to make a comeback to international cricket.

“Missing the World Cup is a big setback for me but my career is certainly not over and I can still continue to play for another six to seven years, so I know that I can make a comeback,” he said.

Malik, who led Pakistan between 2007 and 2009, also clarified that he had no dispute or differences with any player in the national team, and that he was ready to play under anyone’s captaincy.

“I am ready to play under any captain and offer him full support. The impression that I am an intriguer is not right,” he said.

On Tuesday, national selectors did not pick the experienced all-rounder for the 30-member squad, and the PCB just stated that Malik was not cleared for selection.

However, some media reports suggest that Malik was not picked because he could not explain to the PCB’s Integrity Committee the presence of 90,000 pounds in his bank account in the UK.

“Malik was unable to explain from where the money came from, its source and how it was in his account. That was the reason why he was not cleared for selection,” the reports said. (ANI)