Is Sana Javed Pushing Shoaib Malik for Comeback?

In a move that has sparked widespread discussion, actor Sana Javed has publicly voiced support for her husband, seasoned cricketer Shoaib Malik, amidst Pakistan’s ongoing cricket challenges following a third consecutive loss to India in the recent final. Sana’s comments have reignited conversations about Malik’s potential return to the national team, which is currently grappling with questions of experience and leadership.

Taking to Facebook, Sana stated that Malik’s extensive experience could serve as a “beacon of hope” for the struggling Pakistan side. She emphasized that his presence on the field would “ignite courage and inspire belief in victory.” However, she clarified that she was not outright demanding his inclusion, saying Malik was not “necessary” but highlighting the urgent need for senior players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan to provide stability.

Malik, who was previously married to Indian tennis star Sania Mirza, has been largely out of serious contention for a spot in the national side, overshadowed by emerging talent and inconsistent performances in recent years. Sana Javed, who was formerly married to singer Umair Jaswal, appears to be using her platform to thrust Malik’s name back into the cricket spotlight during a period of scrutiny for the Pakistan team.

Her statement has been interpreted by many as a strategic attempt to revive Malik’s cricketing relevance, rather than a mere commentary on the team’s current state. This public endorsement comes amid growing criticism of the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) decisions, especially concerning Malik’s inclusion in the Sialkot squad for the National T20 Cup earlier this year.

Malik’s selection for the tournament, which began on March 15, faced backlash from fans and cricket experts alike. Many argued that his presence in the squad impeded opportunities for promising young players such as Azan Awais, Ali Shafique, and Awais Ali. The exclusion of Awais Ali, who scored 1,422 runs in the 2024-25 domestic season at an average of 56.9 and made a century against India in the U19 category, was particularly criticized.

Former Pakistan batsman Salman Butt also weighed in, asserting that the National T20 Cup should focus on nurturing young talent rather than favoring veterans. While some players like Wahab Riaz and Sarfaraz Ahmed withdrew from the squad after receiving criticism, Malik remained a part of Sialkot’s lineup, adding to the controversy.

Sana Javed’s intervention highlights how voices from outside the cricketing world, especially from the entertainment sector, can influence public discourse and reignite debates around team selection and experience at a critical time for Pakistan cricket. For Shoaib Malik, this public support may represent one of the most impactful innings played on his behalf in recent years — not with the bat, but through his wife’s advocacy.