KARACHI — Former Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik has called for sweeping reforms in Pakistan’s Test cricket structure, urging authorities to strengthen the domestic red-ball system and offer better financial incentives to specialist players.
His comments come in the wake of a disappointing Test series performance by Pakistan national cricket team, which suffered a 2–0 whitewash against Bangladesh national cricket team under the captaincy of Shan Masood.
“Reward Red-Ball Specialists” — Malik’s Key Proposal
Shoaib Malik emphasized that Pakistan must prioritize red-ball specialists by introducing improved central contracts and targeted incentives.
He argued that better financial security would encourage players to stay committed to first-class cricket instead of drifting toward franchise leagues.
Push for Mandatory First-Class Participation
Malik proposed that players should be required to participate in at least five first-class matches per season to remain fully connected with the longer format of the game.
He believes this would help maintain technical consistency and rebuild the foundation of Pakistan’s Test cricket standards.
Concerns Over Franchise Cricket Influence
The former captain warned that growing pressure from franchise cricket is affecting players’ natural development in the longer format.
He stressed that without structural balance, players may continue to prioritize short-format leagues over national red-ball duties.
“Full Preparation Needed for International Success”
Malik highlighted the gap between domestic and international cricket standards, stating that partial preparation is not enough at the highest level.
He urged cricket authorities to ensure players enter international cricket fully prepared, committed, and technically sound.
Main Takeaway
Shoaib Malik’s remarks underline a growing concern over Pakistan’s declining Test performance and call for urgent reforms in domestic red-ball cricket, better contracts for specialists, and stricter first-class participation rules to rebuild long-format strength.
