Shoaib Malik is 43-years-old, yet he's still active in franchise cricket, playing for Quetta Gladiators in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) at the moment. However, his involvement in PSL has raised eyebrows, especially after he was named as a mentor for a domestic team last year.

 

Former Pakistan batter Mohammad Yousuf has questioned whether Malik should still be playing in the league. Speaking on a cricket show on Samaa TV, Yousuf said the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) needs to decide who should be allowed to play in the PSL.

 

"The PCB needs to draw a line regarding Shoaib Malik playing the PSL. If you ask me to play, even I'll play," said Yousuf.

 

"I think the Board needs to decide who can play and who can't. The board needs to make some decisions. Everyone wants to play," he added.

 

For context, Shoaib Malik was appointed as a mentor for the domestic team Stallions during the Champions One-Day Cup last year. Misbah-ul-Haq, Saqlain Mushtaq, and Sarfaraz Ahmed were also named mentors. Now, his return as a player in the PSL is being viewed by some as a conflict of interest.

 

During the TV show, the host asked Yousuf and Shahid Afridi, "When will Shoaib Malik stop playing cricket," leading to the discussion.

 

However, Shahid Afridi responded in Malik's favour, saying, "He can play till whenever he wants to. I recently met him at Moin Khan Academy. He was coming back from training. At that time, the National T20 Cup was going on. Shoaib Malik can play some matches, but he should also miss a few games so that youngsters get their chance as they have performed well to get here."

 

The anchor then argued, "What will happen to the kid who is missing out? Shoaib Malik is playing in his place. A line must be drawn. You are the mentor, and you must decide whether you want to be a mentor or play."

 

To this, Afridi replied, "Yes, you are right. What else can I say?"

 

So far in PSL 2025, Malik has played two matches but hasn't performed well. He has scored only 14 runs and hasn't taken any wickets with the ball.

 

Malik last played for Pakistan in 2021 in a T20I against Bangladesh.