KARACHI, Oct 30: Whenever the name of former captain Salim Malik is mentioned, it invariably reminds people of another former skipper Rashid Latif who was the central figure of the Malik Qayyum inquiry into match-fixing which led to the life-ban on Salim.

However, nearly thirteen years later, Rashid seems to have no objection if the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) decides to appoint Salim Malik as Pakistan’s batting coach.

“I know that a lot of people anticipate this, but I am in no mood to object at any such move,” said Rashid while speaking to a leading TV channel here on Tuesday.

“It’s the PCB’s call, if they decide in Malik’s favour then I will accept it,” said Rashid.

“The fixing controversy apart, Malik is amongst the finest batsmen and captains ever produced by Pakistan,” said Rashid.

Earlier this month, Salim Malik, who was banned for life in 2000, submitted his application to the PCB for the position of the batting coach. Malik insisted that a local court of Lahore had already overturned the ban on him imposed for his alleged involvement in match fixing.

Malik, 49, made his Test match debut in 1982, and went on to play 103 Test matches for Pakistan. He also featured in 283 ODIs for his country between 1982 and 1999.

While ducking questions about the Justice Qayyum-inquiry, Rashid made it clear that the final responsibility to judge a person lies with the PCB, but if Malik is selected then his batting experience would surely prove beneficial for the Pakistan team.

“Salim’s batting abilities are beyond doubt. Even in my playing days I always looked up to Miandad and him (Malik) for guidance in batting. His experience would surely benefit the team if he is appointed as batting coach,” said Rashid.—Agencies