Picture: Asser Malik

Malala Yousafzai has surprised millions of followers by announcing she has married.

The 24-year-old education activist posted pictures of her wedding to cricketer Asser Malik – a coach with the Pakistan national team.

The couple married at a “small ceremony” in Birmingham.

Malala – the youngest winner of a Nobel Peace Prize – was shot by the Taliban nine years ago.

She posted online:

“Today marks a precious day in my life.

“Asser and I tied the knot to be partners for life.

“We celebrated a small nikkah ceremony at home in Birmingham with our families.

“Please send us your prayers.

“We are excited to walk together for the journey ahead.”

Little is known how the couple met and how the relationship had been kept a secret from the wider world.