All-rounder Shoaib Malik has refuted rumours of match-fixing while playing in the Bangladesh Premier League, saying that he left the T20 cricket tournament due to pre-committed media engagement in Dubai.

“I want to make it clear that I strongly refute these baseless rumors,” he said in his statement on X on Friday. “It’s crucial for everyone to verify information before believing and spreading it.”

Malik was playing for the Fortune Barishal in the league. There was speculation in Indian media that the all-rounder departed for the United Arab Emirates in the middle of the league on January 24 as his contract was terminated after spot-fixing claims.

But team owner Meezan ur Rehman rebuffed such ‘baseless’ allegations. He confirmed that Malik had left the league due to personal reasons.

In his official statement on social media, Malik said that he dismissed the recent rumours circulating about his playing position with the team. The former Pakistan cricket team captain added that he had a thorough discussion with Barishal’s captain, Tamim Iqbal, and they mutually planned the way forward.

“I had to leave Bangladesh for a pre-committed media engagement in Dubai,” he said and extended his best wishes to the team for their upcoming matches. “If needed, I am available to support them if needs be.”

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He emphasised the importance of exercising caution when it comes to speculations, especially those circulating recently.

“Falsehoods can harm reputations and create unnecessary confusion. Let’s prioritize accuracy and rely on credible sources to ensure a clear understanding of the facts,” Malik added.

Malik has recently been in the news for his marriage to actress Sana Javed.