Afridi, Malik named in World XI for match against WI

Pakistan cricket stars, Shahid Afridi and Shoaib Malik, have been named in a World XI that will play against West Indies at Lord’s next month in a match aimed to raise funds for the Caribbean islands badly damaged by hurricanes last year.

The Pakistan duo and Sri Lanka’s Thisara Perera have been named to play for the World XI that will be captained by England skipper Eoin Morgan against a Windies side that will feature Chris Gayle and Andre Russell.

Lord’s holds happy memories for the Pakistan duo, who won the ICC World T20 final against Sri Lanka there in 2009.

The match on May 31 is being staged to raise funds to rebuild and restore five major cricket venues at the heart of Caribbean communities that were damaged by Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017.

Shahid Afridi Malik World XI — Afridi and Malik jubilant after taking Pakistan to World T20 title in 2009 against Sri Lanka after their crucial partnership.

Venues impacted by the Hurricanes include the Sir Viv Richards Stadium in Antigua, which was converted into a temporary camp for Barbuda refugees.

“I am humbled to have been selected for such a noble cause,” Afridi said.

“Cricket is one big family and no matter how hard and tough we play against each other, there is tremendous comradery within the group.

“As such, it is our moral and professional obligation to stand up and support whenever and wherever we can, to assist our members, colleagues and cricket fans.”

Shoaib Malik said: “It’s a matter of great honour and pride to be selected in an ICC World XI and a wonderful opportunity to play along with and against some of the biggest names in world cricket. “As much as the chance of figuring in such a select group, I also see this as an opportunity to contribute in a meaningful cause.

…That the match is being played at Lord’s makes this event extra special for me. Lord’s obviously is one of the most revered cricket venues but I also have some very delightful memories there.”

The tickets for the match are on sale at https://tickets.lords.org/ with all proceeds going towards rebuilding and renovating these major venues as well as other community cricket facilities.