Shoaib Malik to become the only Pakistani to play six Champions Trophy tournaments

For Pakistan’s star all-rounder Shoaib Malik, the soon approaching Champions Trophy 2017 will be a historical tournament as he will become the first ever Pakistani cricketer to feature in the Champions Trophy for the 6th time. Talking outside of the Pakistan cricket ecosystem, there are only 8 other players who have played the prestigious 50-over tournament six times.

This includes former Australian captain Ricky Ponting, India’s batting stalwart Rahul Dravid, former Kiwi international Daniel Vettori, South African duo of Jacques Kallis and Mark Boucher, and Sri Lankan duo of Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene. Akhtar played his first Champions Trophy in 2002, followed by 2004, 2006, 2009 and 2013.

The India’s son-in-law has amassed 326 runs and taken 10 wickets in the 15 times when he appeared in an ICC Champions Trophy game.

“I am happy to be part of the Pakistan squad in a quality event like the ICC Champions Trophy,” Shoaib said, in a press release by the ICC. “If I look at the company of players who have played in the six events to date, I feel humbled and honoured as these gentlemen are some of the finest our sport has ever seen.”

Pakistan’s objective in the CT

He went on to explain why the Champions Trophy is a great platform for the Pakistan team. They will get an opportunity to make strides in ODI cricket, which will also help them attain new ranks and qualify for the 2019 World Cup.

“The Champions Trophy is one of the most important events for Pakistan in recent times for a number of reasons. As the ODI squad, we need to re-establish ourselves as one of the top ODI sides by putting up strong performances against all teams. This will help our global ranking and help us to qualify for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019.”

Pakistan will play their tournament opener against India on June 4.