'You have no right to level such allegations against me' - Saleem Malik hits back at people calling him a match-fixer

Saleem Malik was once one of the best batsmen in the Pakistan batting line-up. In fact, a few days back, former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq praised Malik as one of the best batsmen to come out of the country. But, in 2000, Malik’s career had ended in an abrupt fashion after his name came up in match-fixing allegations. He was charged and banned for life by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in 2000.

However, in 2008, the Lahore Civil Court lifted his ban. But he didn’t ever return to cricket. Not because he was too old to get back to playing but PCB didn’t want him involved. The 57-year-old had applied for coaching roles but each time, his application was rejected.

In a recent video, Malik has said that people should not associate him with match-fixing anymore. He also said that he would be willing to take legal actions if that happens. Malik further explained that he has cleared by the court for any such fixing related charges.

‘I will take such people to court’: Saleem Malik

“I want to warn those people who associate my name with match-fixing, that I have been cleared by the court and you have no right to level such allegations against me,” said Malik as quoted by Samaa TV. “I will take such people to court if they continue taking my name with regard to match-fixing.”

Cricket Pakistan also stated in an article that in order to return to the cricket fraternity, Malik needs to answer a notice which was issued to him by PCB in 2013. “I have received a questionnaire from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). I will speak to media outside the Gaddafi Stadium [Lahore] tomorrow,” he said.

A few days back, Malik had urged to the PCB that his ban should be lifted now. In that video, he had explained that his experience could be great for young Pakistani cricketers to learn from. This is a thought which was also put forward by Inzamam-ul-Haq, who said it will be great to watch someone with experience over 100 Tests guiding young players.

Malik had questioned PCB why has he not been taken back in a coaching role while players like Mohammad Amir, Salman Butt and Sharjeel Khan have made their comebacks.