‘Arthur’s statements rubbish’

KARACHI: Former Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik has rubbished Micky Arthur’s statements as “rubbish” after the ex-South Africa coach claimed he suspected Pakistan of match-fixing during the One-Day International (ODI) series between the two sides in 2007.

Arthur suspected Pakistan of wrong-doing after Pakistan lost the series-decider by 14 runs due to a batting collapse.

“We didn’t have any proof, but when you’ve been involved long enough you know when something’s not right,” said Arthur. “How else do you explain a batting side needing only 40 runs with seven wickets in hand, and then losing?”

But Malik, who was playing his first series as captain, refuted the remarks.

“It’s ridiculous as there was no match-fixing and the series was played in a good manner,” said Malik before his departure to play the Hong Kong Super Sixes. “It’s a nonsense statement which should have been avoided.”

The all-rounder, however, ruled out any legal action against Arthur. “For me, his comments have no weight. Maybe he’s made them to make headlines amid the ongoing controversy.”

Meanwhile, the former captain said the Hong Kong tournament was more than just enjoyment. “I will take the tournament seriously as I am trying to regain my place before the World Cup.”

The event would be played on November 6 and 7 with Imran Nazir, Shoaib Khan, Sohail Khan, Shabbir Ahmed, Ahmed Shahzad and Asad Ali the other members of the Pakistan squad.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 5^th, 2010.