Malik dismisses Arthur’s ‘fixed 2007 Lahore ODI’ claims as ridiculous

KARACHI - Pakistani all-rounder Shoaib Malik has dismissed former South Africa coach Mickey Arthur’s claims that he and his players suspected that a ODI played against Pakistan in 2007 was ‘fixed’.

South African had won the five-match series 3-2 after an extraordinary collapse from the hosts in the final match played at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium handed them the series victory.

Malik, who was the Pakistan skipper in the match, said that he was shocked at the claims made by Arthur.

“His claim is ridiculous and I don’t understand why after all these years he suddenly remembered this now. I am really disappointed with his statement because I remember we were shattered after losing that match as we were in a strong position,” the Daily Times quoted Malik, as saying.

“How seriously can you take such a statement after all these years? If they had suspicions, why did they keep quiet? He (Arthur) should have gone to the ICC anti-corruption unit. Why try to defame Pakistan cricket now?” he added.

Batting first, the South Africans had notched up 233 for nine in their 50 overs and in response Pakistan were cruising at 149 for two. Pakistan then proceeded to lose their last eight wickets for just 70 runs, handing the South Africans a 14-run victory.

“There was a strong suspicion of match-fixing and it took some of the gloss off the series win,” Arthur had said earlier this week.

“We did not have any proof, but when you have been involved in the game long enough you know when something is not right,” he added. (ANI)