Shoaib Malik Retires from PSL After 10 Seasons
KARACHI: Veteran Pakistan all-rounder Shoaib Malik has officially brought his Pakistan Super League (PSL) playing journey to an end after featuring in the tournament for a decade.
The 43-year-old shared the news through a heartfelt message on his Instagram account, reflecting on his long association with the league and expressing gratitude for the memories he created along the way.
“Every season of the PSL has given me unforgettable experiences and lifelong friendships, both on and off the field. After 10 wonderful years, the time has come for me to step away as a player,” Malik wrote. He added that while his playing days in the league have concluded, his commitment to contributing to cricket in other capacities remains strong.
A former Pakistan captain, Malik has also served as mentor to the Stallions in Champions tournaments and hinted that fans may soon see him involved in a different role within the sport.
Throughout his PSL career, Malik represented multiple franchises, including Karachi Kings, Multan Sultans, Peshawar Zalmi and Quetta Gladiators. Across 93 matches, he amassed 2,350 runs at an average of 33.09 and a strike rate of 127.78, registering 15 half-centuries in the process.
His decision to retire comes at a transformative moment for the PSL, as the league prepares to expand with two new franchises—Hyderabad and Sialkot—purchased by FKS Group and OZ Developers for Rs1.75 billion and Rs1.85 billion, respectively, at a high-profile auction earlier this month.
The announcement of the Sialkot franchise sparked particular excitement among fans, many of whom quickly linked it to the legendary Sialkot Stallions, the dominant domestic T20 side that enjoyed multiple championship wins under Malik’s leadership.
The upcoming 11th season of the PSL is scheduled to take place from March 26 to May 3, featuring eight teams, with Lahore Qalandars entering the tournament as the reigning champions.
