Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) team Fortune Barishal has announced the replacement of Shoaib Malik for the ongoing BPL 2024 after abruptly terminating the former Pakistan captain’s contract.

The franchise and the veteran all-rounder were recently embroiled in a huge controversy after the latter was accused of match-fixing. The allegations surfaced after Shoaib Malik bowled three consecutive balls in an over during the game between Fortune Barishal and Khulna Tigers. This was followed by his sudden departure to Dubai and only added fuel to the fire.

Recent Bangladeshi media reports claimed that the franchise ended its ties with Shoaib Malik due to match-fixing allegations. The franchise owner was reportedly unhappy with the cricketer and decided to terminate his contract. However, the franchise and the veteran cricketer have denied reports that the contract was terminated over fixing allegations.

“In recent days there has been talk about Shoaib Malik. The reports are baseless. He is an excellent cricketer and has been a great help to us. We don’t want to discuss this further. As we have lost the last two matches, we want to focus on the upcoming matches,” said owner Mohammad Mizanur Rahaman.

Fortune Barishal announces Shoaib Malik’s replacement:

With Shoaib Malik now out of BPL 2024, Barishal Fortune has roped in another Pakistan cricketer Ahmed Shahzad as his replacement. The right-handed batsman has not played in international cricket since 2019 but has extensive experience.

He has played 13 Tests, 81 ODIs and 59 T20Is for his country, scoring over 4000 runs in all formats. He has played 249 T20s so far and has scored 6838 runs with the help of 5 centuries and 44 half-centuries. Meanwhile, Shoaib Malik played only three matches in BPL 2024 and scored 29 runs besides taking one wicket. He recently also issued a clarification on the match-fixing controversy.

“I would like to address and dismiss the recent rumors circulating regarding my position as a player in Fortune Barishal. I had a thorough conversation with our captain, Tamim Iqbal, and we mutually planned the way forward. I had to leave Bangladesh for a previously committed media engagement in Dubai,” Shoaib Malik said.

“I extend my best wishes to Fortune Barishal for their upcoming matches and am available to support them if required. I have always liked to play and I will continue to do so. “I want to emphasize the importance of proceeding with caution when it comes to rumors, especially those that are circulating recently.”

“I want to make it clear that I strongly refute these unfounded rumors. It is essential that everyone verify information before believing it and spreading it. Falsehoods can damage reputations and create unnecessary confusion. Let’s prioritize accuracy and rely on credible sources to ensure a clear understanding of the facts. Thank you for your understanding and diligence. Thank you for your love and support as always,” he added.

Fortune Barishal started their season with a win over Rangpur Riders before losing against Khulna Tigers and Comilla Victorians. They will be in action next Saturday (January 27) when they take on Chattogram Challengers.