Shoaib Malik to take call on retirement closer to T20 World Cup

Pakistan's senior all-rounder Shoaib Malik on Friday said he will take a decision on international retirement closer to T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in October. " World Cup is still far off and I think right w my focus is on Pakistan Super League and coming matches for Pakistan. When I get closer to World Cup I will see what to do," he said. Malik, 38, has already retired from Tests after 35 matches and One-day Internationals (287) but is still playing T20 format in which he has appeared in 113 games for Pakistan besides appearing in different leagues around world.

Malik, a former Pakistan captain, had said after retiring from ODIs after last World Cup that he would also call it quits in T20 Internationals.

"I will have to see my fitness and position in national side closer to World Cup than I will take a decision on final retirement," he told reporters.

all-rounder also said he didn't take criticism to heart as it is like having breakfast in morning in Pakistan cricket.

"One becomes used to it. I don't take it to heart. As I am t an insecure person and I have achieved a lot in life. For me even w to play for Pakistan is biggest hour and perform as well as a senior professional. 

"As far as my being dropped after World Cup is concerned as a professional cricketer I have seen lot of ups and downs in life and I took it in my stride."

Malik said that he just wanted to avail every opportunity available to him w to do well for his country. Malik also advised Pakistan Cricket Board selectors to t pick players on basis of two or three performances in Pakistan Super League or league cricket. "PSL is important for us as it is seen internationally and followed widely by people and covered extensively by media. But I would still emphasise don't select anyone or one or two matches. Criteria should be strong to pick a player for Pakistan." "I would say if a player gives some good performances make him play at least two or three seasons and let him perform consistency in m before considering him for selection."