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Cricket

Shoaib Malik issues statement on contract termination with BPL franchise

Malik refuted reports suggesting his contract was terminated, stating that he had discussions with team captain Tamim Iqbal about his decision to part ways.

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Mathew K
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Shoaib Malik (Source: Twitter)

Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Malik dismissed match-fixing allegations and clarified his departure from Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) club Fortune Barishal. Malik refuted reports suggesting his contract was terminated, stating that he had discussions with team captain Tamim Iqbal about his decision to part ways.

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Media reports surfaced on Friday suggesting that Shoaib Malik's contract with Fortune Barishal was terminated due to "suspicion" of match-fixing. This development followed an incident where Malik bowled three no-balls in an over during a match against Khulna Tigers on January 22. Shoaib Malik participated in another game for Fortune Barishal before the conclusion of the Dhaka leg of BPL 2024.

Shoaib Malik clarified that he departed from the BPL after playing three games to fulfil a pre-existing commitment in Dubai. He communicated to the franchise that he would be available if required in the later stages of the tournament. BPL 2024 is scheduled to take place from January 19 to March 1.

"I would like to address and dismiss the recent rumors 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. I extend my best wishes to Fortune Barishal for their upcoming matches, and if needed, I am available to support them if needs be. I have always found joy in playing the game and will continue to do so," Shoaib Malik said in a statement.

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Sania Mirza’s sister confirms divorce with Shoaib Malik

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Former Indian tennis player Sania Mirza's sister, Anam Mirza, has confirmed on social media that Sania has been divorced from veteran Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Malik for several months. The 41-year-old's marriage to Sana Javed sparked controversy, leading fans to question his relationship with Sania Mirza. Anam Mirza took to Instagram to address the situation, requesting fans to respect their family's privacy. She also clarified that Sania holds only good wishes for Malik's future endeavours.

“Sania has always kept her personal life away from the public eye. However, today the need has arisen for her to share that Shoaib and she have been divorced for a few months now. She wishes Shoaib well for his new journey ahead! At this sensitive period of her life, we would like to refrain from indulging in any speculation and to respect her need for privacy,” Anam Mirza posted on Instagram.