Former Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Malik has warned young athletes not to focus too much on money early in their careers. He believes that passion and dedication should be their main priorities. In a recent episode of ProPakistani’s podcast, he explained that if athletes work hard and succeed in their sport, money, fame, and fan support will come naturally.
Malik also expressed concern about the current trend of players leaving international cricket for better-paying franchise contracts. He suggested that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) should increase match fees for red-ball cricketers to encourage more players to return to longer formats of the game. He believes that higher pay for traditional cricket could help attract talented players who might otherwise choose shorter, more lucrative leagues.
His comments reflect a broader concern in the cricket community about the impact of financial incentives on the sport. Many young cricketers are now tempted to pursue short-term financial gains instead of committing to the longer format of the game, which can be more rewarding in terms of skill development and overall cricketing experience.
By emphasizing the importance of passion and dedication, Malik hopes to inspire the next generation of cricketers to prioritize their skills and the love for the game over immediate financial rewards. He believes that focusing on excellence in their craft will ultimately lead to greater success and recognition in their careers.
