Pakistan had a great Champions Trophy 2017 where after a loss against arch-rivals India in the opening game, the Green Army came back strongly and ended up defeating the Virat Kohli and Co. in the final to claim their maiden title.

Veteran all-rounder Shoaib Malik recently talked about how he motivated the team with his pep talk and they came back from a 124-run loss in the tournament opener.

“My entire pep talk during the Champions Trophy revolved around how nobody can guarantee you a spot in the side, nor can anyone take it away from you. We were spending a lot of time practising, but we weren't getting results,” Malik told Cricwik.

“On that particular day, our result was very bad and ICC events are almost like knock-out tournaments due to their format. I only motivated the players to do what they do best and be confident. I advised them to not think about the result. I feel you only come under pressure when you start thinking about the result,” he added.

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The Pakistan side defeated South Africa and Sri Lanka to make it to the semifinal stage where they locked horns with hosts and favourites England, only to make it to the final against India.

But this time the they were prepared to take on powerhouse India as Pakistan handed them a 180-run loss to win their maiden Champions Trophy.

The 39-year-old who last played a T20I against England in September 2020, wants to play for Pakistan team in this year’s T20 World Cup.

“I am positive about playing in the T20 World Cup. I feel you should try to avail all the opportunities you get. At the end of the day, your performances should help the team you are representing. That's my first goal,” Malik signed off.

(With India Today Inputs)