Want to play till 2019 World Cup: Shoaib Malik

Pakistan all-rounder says he left Test cricket to focus on the shorter format


Sports Desk November 23, 2015
PHOTO: AFP

Pakistan veteran all-rounder Shoaib Malik said on Monday he is looking forward to play until the 2019 World Cup.

“My goal is to play 2019 World Cup. That's why I have taken retirement from Test cricket," Malik said, according to Emirates 24/7.

Shoaib Malik retires from Tests

The former Pakistan captain said that his recent success is down to his fitness, over which he never compromised.

"I wasn't part of the team for like five years. But I try to train every day and I've tried to maintain myself when it's about fitness.”

“If you look at all the sports, if you are physically fit you can achieve your goals and see your yourself (being) consistent also at the same time," said Malik, who recently retired from Test cricket after making a long awaited comeback to the Test side after a gap of five years.

3rd Test: Malik's double helps Pakistan hold stronger fort against England

When asked about what keeps him motivated, the 33-year-old said that his passion for the game is the motivation him behind achieving his goals.

"Cricket is my passion,” said Malik who was surprisingly included in the Test series against England, where he ended up scoring 292 runs at an average of 48.5 and took 11 wickets.

“My father always wanted me to play cricket. Even though he is not here anymore but I play cricket because it's my passion,” he added.

“That's what is asking me to go and train. I think even when I leave cricket; I will be seeing myself in the gym every day."

Shoaib Malik retirement: A mediocre career, an honourable exit

Malik, who became the seventh player in history to have more than 6,000 runs and more than 150 wickets, said that working out every day is necessary for everyone to stay healthy.

"It's [training] very important even when you are not an athlete. Even for a normal person this should be your routine in life,” said Malik.

“Train every day. Whatever you could do, you should do.”

“If you can’t run, then walk. If you can't go to the gym, take a dip in the pool," he added.

The article originally appeared on emirates247.com

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