Shoaib Malik, Pakistan’s all-rounder, got involved in a controversy last week after bowling three no balls in an over during a Bangladesh Premier League match against the Khulna Tigers. The incident, which occurred at Dhaka’s Sher-e-Bangla Stadium, went viral on social media, with some fans claiming match-fixing. Mizanur Rahman, Fortune Barishal’s team owner, expressed similar concerns during a conversation on a private news channel, urging the Anti-Corruption Unit to conduct an investigation.
Following the match, Malik left the franchise for personal reasons and travelled to Dubai and on Friday it was reported that the team had terminated his contract. But Malik responded to the reports of fixing in detail in a statement he shared on his official social media accounts, hours after the news broke. Malik denied the “rumors” about his commitment to the franchise and said he had a “thorough discussion” with Tamim Iqbal, the team captain, before to departing for Dubai.
“I would like to address and dismiss the recent rumours circulating about my playing position with Fortune Barishal. I had a thorough discussion with our captain, Tamim Iqbal, and we mutually planned the way forward. I had to leave Bangladesh for a pre-committed media engagement in Dubai,” Malik wrote.
“I extend my best wishes to Fortune Barishal for their upcoming matches, and if needed, I am available to support them if needs be. I have always found joy in playing the game and will continue to do so.”
Official statement ;
I would like to address and dismiss the recent rumors circulating about my playing position with Fortune Barishal. I had a thorough discussion with our captain, Tamim Iqbal, and we mutually planned the way forward. I had to leave Bangladesh for a… pic.twitter.com/kmPqPt1nxv— Shoaib Malik 🇵🇰 (@realshoaibmalik) January 26, 2024
Malik also asked fans to “verify information” and shared a video statement from Fortune Barishal’s team owner, who said Malik gave his “level best” and that there should be no doubt about his dedication to the squad.