Salim Malik apologises to nation over match fixing

Former captain Saleem Malik on Sunday assured unconditional cooperation to Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and International Cricket Council (ICC), insisting that he should be given a second chance like others.

"I've already appealed [for that]. And, now once again I'm appealing. I assure unconditional cooperation to PCB and ICC. I also tender my sincere apology to my all fans if ever I hurt their feelings," Malik said in a video message.

The 57-year-old Malik was banned for life from cricket in 2000, following allegations of offering bribe to some Australian cricketers to underperform in 1994-95 Karachi Test.

A local court in Lahore, however ruled in his favour and overturned the ban in October, 2008.

A few days back he had argued that other players, involved in foul play were allowed to return to the sport and hence he should also be treated in the same manner. Now less than a week, he once again pleaded to get a second chance like them.

"As others were given a good treatment, I would also like to be treated in the same way under human right laws. I hope like others I'll also be given a second innings," he insisted.

"I'm ready to fully cooperate with ICC and PCB and whatever rules and regulations they've [I'll follow]."

Considered as one of the most gifted Pakistan batsmen of his era Malik made his international debut in 1982, amassing 5,768 runs in 103 Tests and 7,110 in 283 one-day internationals.

It may be pointed out here that recently, former batting great Inzamam-ul-Haq also underlined that Malik should be given a second chance to serve Pakistan by helping young cricketers with his experience.

"It is unfortunate to see that his career ended like that. It should not have ended that way.

But I believe he deserves a second innings [chance] to do something for the country," Inzamam had said in a video message on his YouTube channel.

Similarly, former off-spinner Saqlain Mushtaq also favoured Malik and stated that he should be allowed to serve Pakistan cricket again.

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