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Pakistan cricket has once again been plunged into turmoil, with former international cricketer Basit Ali making explosive allegations against ex-captain Shoaib Malik. In a video posted on his YouTube channel, Ali accused Malik of deliberately losing a match during his playing career, sparking widespread controversy and raising serious questions about the integrity of the sport in Pakistan.
Shoaib Malik accused of deliberate match-fixing
Basit’s claims against Malik came on the heels of Pakistan’s shocking 0-2 Test series defeat to Bangladesh last month. The loss, the first time Pakistan had ever lost a series against Bangladesh, had already sparked widespread criticism and calls for change within the cricket fraternity.
In his video, Ali did not mince words, accusing Malik of “deliberately losing a match” and slamming the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for appointing him as the mentor of the Stallions team in the Champions One-Day Cup.
Ali also criticized the PCB for “appointing people who cannot think about the country.”
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The 2005 National T20 cup controversy
The match Basit Ali was referring to appears to be the infamous 2005 National T20 Cup game between the Sialkot Stallions and the Karachi Zebras. In that match, Malik, then leading the Stallions, made the controversial decision to concede the game despite needing just 25 runs from the last four overs. Malik’s decision raised eyebrows and sparked speculation of match-fixing.
Malik later defended his actions, claiming that it was a deliberate act of protest against a prior ruling in the league that had disadvantaged the Stallions. However, his explanation failed to convince many, and he was fined for his actions.
Growing concerns about corruption in Pakistan cricket
Ali’s allegations against Malik are just the latest in a series of scandals to rock Pakistan cricket. In recent years, the sport in Pakistan has been plagued by match-fixing, corruption, and internal disputes. The PCB has struggled to restore the credibility of the sport and has faced criticism for its handling of these issues.
The allegations against Malik, a high-profile former captain, have added to the growing concerns about corruption in Pakistan cricket. If the allegations are proven to be true, it would be a major blow to the reputation of the sport in the country.
The PCB has not yet responded to Ali’s allegations. It remains to be seen how the board will address this serious matter and whether it will launch an investigation into the claims made by the former international cricketer.
