BPL 2024: Shoaib Malik to rejoin Fortune Barishal on February 2

Shoaib malik. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)

Fortune Barishal’s ongoing campaign in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) took an unexpected twist last week when Shoaib Malik abruptly left the squad. The reason behind his sudden departure remained shrouded in mystery, leaving fans and cricket enthusiasts puzzled.

However, putting an end to speculations, Malik clarified the situation on social media, stating that he wants to address and dismiss recent rumours regarding his playing position with Fortune Barishal.

“I would like to address and dismiss the recent rumours circulating about my playing position with Fortune Barishal. I had a thorough discussion with our captain, Tamim Iqbal, and we mutually planned the way forward. I had to leave Bangladesh for a pre-committed media engagement in Dubai,” he posted on ‘X’

Now, in a recent development, the seasoned all-rounder is set to make a comeback on February 2, rejoining the squad just in time for Fortune Barishal’s crucial encounter against Khulna Tigers on February 3. Malik’s return is anticipated to bolster the team’s lineup as they aim to climb up the points table.

In his three previous outings for Barishal, Malik displayed his batting prowess at number sixth but struggled to convert his starts, managing scores of 7, 5*, and 17* in consecutive matches. Although he bowled an over in each of the first two games, he failed to make a significant impact with the ball in the third match.

Malik faced criticism during the team’s second game against Khulna Tigers when he bowled the fourth over and overstepped three times, conceding 18 runs. Notably, this made him the only spinner to overstep three times in a men’s T20 match.

Fortune Barishal, currently occupying the fifth spot on the points table with two wins from five games, will be banking on Malik’s experience to turn the tide in their favour in the upcoming matches. As we all look forward to his return, cricket enthusiasts are eager to witness Malik’s crucial contributions in the remainder of the BPL season.