Pakistani all-rounder Shoaib Malik is set to rejoin his Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) team, Fortune Barishal, on February 2, the team management confirmed on Wednesday. According to Barishal's official statement, “Pakistani senior all-rounder Shoaib Malik will rejoin with the Fortune Barishal on 2 February 2024. In Sylhet phase Barishal will play last game against Khulna on 3 February.” Mashrafe Takes a Break from BPL After Sylhet Strikers' String of Defeats Malik had left the BPL after the first Dhaka phase, with initial reports suggesting he was released for the entire season. This decision sparked controversy, with speculation arising that Malik's departure was linked to suspicions of fixing, particularly due to his delivery of three no-balls in an over during Barishal's match against Khulna Tigers in Dhaka. BPL 2024: Mahmudullah and Imran inspire Barishal’s big win over Sylhet Responding to the controversy, the Barishal team management issued a statement affirming that "Malik gave his best for them" during his time with the team. Malik has been in the spotlight recently for his separation from Indian tennis legend Sania Mirza and his marriage to Pakistani actress Sana Javed. BPL 2024: Riders Secure Third Victory Despite Late Surge by Victorians

Pakistan's star all-rounder, Shoaib Malik, will no longer be part of the remaining matches in the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) season, as confirmed by his team, Fortune Barishal. Following Barishal's last match in the initial Dhaka phase of the BPL, Malik departed for Dubai and was initially expected to return by Thursday. Shakib Al Hasan diagnosed with retinal condition in left eye A source close to the Barishal team revealed that Malik expressed his desire to return on February 4th, a deviation from the initially agreed-upon Thursday return date, a request not accepted by the Barishal team. Despite representing Barishal in three matches this season, Malik failed to make a significant impact. Women's Tri-nation Series: Hosts Bangladesh make flying start beating Sri Lanka by 5 wickets As Malik exits the BPL for this season, Barishal has secured the signings of two additional Pakistani players — Ahmad Shahzad and Akif Javed — who are set to join the team by Friday evening, as confirmed by the team's media department. BPL 2024: Comilla Victorians secure maiden win as Barishal fails to defend 13 in last Over Barishal played three matches in the first Dhaka phase, securing one victory.