'Don't think about the result' - Shoaib Malik reveals the pep talk that boosted Pakistan's morale during Champions Trophy 2017

In the ICC 2017 Champions Trophy, Pakistan scripted history as they defeated India in the finals by 180 runs and lifted the cup for the first time. However, the Men in Green experienced a torrid start to their campaign in the tournament. Pakistan’s first match was against India and they succumbed to a loss by a massive 124 runs.

After a loss against India, Pakistan scripted an amazing comeback as they won against South Africa and Sri Lanka to finish at the second position on the points table of Group B. This was followed by Pakistan winning against England in the semi-final to book a berth in the final against India. 

Years after the historic tournament, Pakistan’s veteran all-rounder Shoaib Malik revealed the advice he gave to the entire camp to boost their confidence. Malik asserted that he told everyone to just be confident and put in their best efforts as nobody can predict the result of the league.

“My entire pep talk during the Champions Trophy revolved around how nobody can guarantee you a spot in the side, nor can anyone take it away from you. We were spending a lot of time practicing, but we weren’t getting results,” Malik said on Cricwik.

“On that particular day, our result was very bad and ICC events are almost like knock-out tournaments due to their format. I only motivated the players to do what they do best and be confident. I advised them to not think about the result. I feel you only come under pressure when you start thinking about the result,” he further said.

I am positive about playing in the T20 World Cup: Shoaib Malik

Shoaib Malik is 39 years old and his last international appearance for Pakistan came in September 2020 against England. The Punjab-born is still confident about making his comeback in the team and playing the 2021 T20 World Cup. Malik added that he tries his best to perform at every given opportunity as his main aim is personal satisfaction.

“I am positive about playing in the T20 World Cup. I feel you should try to avail all the opportunities you get. For me, the most important thing is personal satisfaction, and you only get that when you give your best shot irrespective of the opportunity. At the end of the day, your performances should help the team you are representing. That’s my first goal,” Malik said.