Malik steps down as domestic cricket mentor

LAHORE: Veteran all-rounder Shoaib Malik has announced his resignation from the role of Domestic Cricket Mentor, confirming his decision through a social media post on X.

Malik had formally submitted his resignation to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) two weeks ago, citing the need to “move on” and balance multiple personal and professional responsibilities. However, sources revealed that the PCB had already internally finalized plans to dissolve its five-member mentorship panel, signaling a major shift in its domestic cricket strategy.

“This was not an easy choice, but after reflecting on my commitments, I realized that juggling multiple responsibilities would prevent me from giving my best—both to Pakistan cricket and to my other professional and personal priorities,” Malik stated in his post.

Despite stepping down, Malik assured that he would continue to fulfill his contractual obligations, allowing the PCB sufficient time to appoint a new mentor for the next season. He also expressed gratitude to PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, the executive team, Wahab Riaz, coaching staff, and players for their trust and support.

Malik, who captained Pakistan from 2007 to 2009, made his ODI debut in 1999 as an off-break bowler before establishing himself as a batting all-rounder. Over his career, he played 287 ODIs, scoring 7,534 runs with nine centuries, while also taking 158 wickets. He retired from one-day cricket after the 2019 World Cup.