Getting Wasim Akram's praise is a 'big thing' says Shoaib Malik

Veteran Pakistan all-rounder Shoaib Malik feels “it’s a very big thing” to receive praises from former Pakistan pacer Wasim Akram following his match-winning knock against Afghanistan, which, in retrospect, have kept Pakistan alive in the ongoing Asia Cup. Malik scored an unbeaten 51 against Afghanistan to seal a final over victory when the two teams met in the Super 4 on Friday. Pakistan have since lost heavily to defending champions India, but they still have a chance to qualify for the final if they defeat Bangladesh in what will be a virtual semi-final.

Malik’s innings was what made the difference in the game, especially when Afghanistan looked like they were going to run away with the game. The all-rounder brought his experience into play and bailed his team out in the nick of time. Pakistan, despite being favourites at the start of the tournament, have looked rather scratchy during this edition of the Asia Cup. Considering they are playing in the UAE, their adopted home, Pakistan have underperformed, especially in the bowling department. At the start of the tournament, Pakistan had the strongest bowling line-up on paper.

However, when the need arose, Shoaib Malik delivered for his side. Pakistan legend Wasim Akram was all praises for the 36-year old saying, “Experience has no substitute… Shoaib Malik proved it against a spirited Afghanistan .Did a Dhoni like finish … when Malik faced a bowler, he had no expression on his face and that frustrates a bowler becos he doesn’t know what to expect… wonderful knock @realshoaibmalik”

Akram lauds Malik’s experience

Shoaib Malik was particularly honoured to have received a pat on the back from Wasim Akram. He said, “Well, if that is something that comes from Wasim bhai, that is a very big thing as he’s a legend,” Malik told the media ahead of Wednesday’s crucial Super Four clash against Bangladesh.

“My goal is just to see which bowler is bowling and see what he is trying to do. I just try to play the game according to the situation. My goal is very simple, whoever is bowling on that particular day and what my team needs from me, I just try to play accordingly.

“That’s the only thing I can do. I don’t make things difficult and don’t place extra pressure on me. Of course when you have played so much cricket, you get a lot of confidence,” he concluded.

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