Akhtar's remarks on Indian batting icons in bad taste: Shoaib Malik

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Former Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik feels his ex-teammate Shoaib Akhtar's remarks against Indian icons Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid in his autobiography were in ‘bad taste’ and he should have been more careful while commenting on such legends.

Malik said while he was not taking the book, 'Controversially Yours', too seriously but Akhtar should have been guarded while passing judgements.

"Shoaib should have been careful while talking about cricketers who are legends in their countries whether it is Pakistan or India. You shouldn't be so judgemental when talking about great players because it is in bad taste," Malik said.

Akhtar has been widely criticised for his disparaging remarks against Tendulkar and Dravid by fans and former players alike.

Talking about his own cricketing future, Malik, who is eager to cement back his place in the national squad, said he considers Test cricket the ultimate challenge for any player.

The all-rounder also said he had no interest in the captaincy and was only focusing on cementing his place in the national team.

"Captaincy is not an issue for me nor am I thinking about it because frankly speaking at present I am fortunate to get another chance and make a comeback to the national side. The tour to Zimbabwe was a disappointing one for me and at present I know I need to justify my place in the side," he said.

Malik admitted that he had struggled on returning to international cricket after nearly a year in Zimbabwe.