Former Pakistan captain and talismanic keeper Rashid Latif has a strange suggestion for the PCB and the Test skipper Babar Azam ahead of the three-match Test series against England starting August 19. Latif feels the PCB should be smart and not send Babar for the pressers, and instead have the batting mainstay Shan Masood handle the media briefings. While Masood is arguably the most fluent English speaker in the squad, Latif’s logic goes beyond language—he fears the British media will try to create controversial headlines that could put Babar under undue pressure. &nbsp;“An England tour is a difficult assignment, and the English media often tries to unnecessarily involve visiting teams in news stories,” Rashid said on Geo News’ Score. “Babar Azam is an experienced player, so it would be better for the PCB management to keep him away from the English media and send former captain Shan Masood to speak to them more often. Shan has played in England and has better experience of dealing with the English media.”&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/irfan-pathan-kumar-sangakkara-sledging-delhi-test-2005-cheat-1786445677586">'Your Parents Teach You to Cheat': Irfan Pathan recalls fierce on-field spat with Sangakkara</a> &nbsp;Babar replaced Masood as Pakistan’s Test captain for the third time recently. Under Masood, Pakistan suffered a series of losses, pushing them further down and away from the WTC final qualification, across three cycles.&nbsp; &nbsp;However, in the current cycle, which concludes with a final next year in June in England, Pakistan sits at the bottom in ninth place, with two wins and four losses in six concluded Tests. Their latest assignment was an away two-match Test series against the West Indies, which ended in a draw, with Pakistan winning the second Test.<h2>Pakistan in England</h2>Pakistan will return to England for a Test series for the first time since 2020, when the hosts won the three-match series 1-0. Although England had toured Pakistan in the meantime, whitewashing them in a famous rout in 2022, the two teams will square off in Leeds, London and Birmingham this time. &nbsp;Pakistan had enjoyed touring England in the late 80s and early 90s, winning three consecutive away series -- 1-0 in 1987, 2-1 in 1992 and 2-0 in 1996 - but haven’t won a Test series in the UK since.&nbsp;<h3>Pakistan Test Squad for England Tests –</h3>Babar Azam (captain), Aamer Jamal, Abdullah Fazal, Ali Usman, Azan Awais, Imam-ul-Haq, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Rizwan, Awais Zafar, Ghazi Ghori, Sajid Khan, Salman Agha, Shan Masood, Ubaid Shah and Saud Shakeel (subject to fitness for England)

Ex-Pakistan captain Rashid Latif urges the PCB to keep Babar Azam away from English media during the UK Test tour and let Shan Masood handle pressers.

Former Pakistan captain and talismanic keeper Rashid Latif has a strange suggestion for the PCB and the Test skipper Babar Azam ahead of the three-match Test series against England starting August 19. Latif feels the PCB should be smart and not send Babar for the pressers, and instead have the batting mainstay Shan Masood handle the media briefings. While Masood is arguably the most fluent English speaker in the squad, Latif’s logic goes beyond language—he fears the British media will try to create controversial headlines that could put Babar under undue pressure. “An England tour is a difficult assignment, and the English media often tries to unnecessarily involve visiting teams in news stories,” Rashid said on Geo News’ Score. “Babar Azam is an experienced player, so it would be better for the PCB management to keep him away from the English media and send former captain Shan Masood to speak to them more often. Shan has played in England and has better experience of dealing with the English media.” Also read| 'Your Parents Teach You to Cheat': Irfan Pathan recalls fierce on-field spat with Sangakkara Babar replaced Masood as Pakistan’s Test captain for the third time recently. Under Masood, Pakistan suffered a series of losses, pushing them further down and away from the WTC final qualification, across three cycles. However, in the current cycle, which concludes with a final next year in June in England, Pakistan sits at the bottom in ninth place, with two wins and four losses in six concluded Tests. Their latest assignment was an away two-match Test series against the West Indies, which ended in a draw, with Pakistan winning the second Test. Pakistan in England Pakistan will return to England for a Test series for the first time since 2020, when the hosts won the three-match series 1-0. Although England had toured Pakistan in the meantime, whitewashing them in a famous rout in 2022, the two teams will square off in Leeds, London and Birmingham this time. Pakistan had enjoyed touring England in the late 80s and early 90s, winning three consecutive away series -- 1-0 in 1987, 2-1 in 1992 and 2-0 in 1996 - but haven’t won a Test series in the UK since. Pakistan Test Squad for England Tests – Babar Azam (captain), Aamer Jamal, Abdullah Fazal, Ali Usman, Azan Awais, Imam-ul-Haq, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Rizwan, Awais Zafar, Ghazi Ghori, Sajid Khan, Salman Agha, Shan Masood, Ubaid Shah and Saud Shakeel (subject to fitness for England)

Ex-Pakistan captain Rashid Latif urges the PCB to keep Babar Azam away from English media during the UK Test tour and let Shan Masood handle pressers.

'Send Shan Masood Instead': PCB urged to keep Babar Azam away from English media

Former Pakistan captain and gloveman Rashid Latif dropped a bombshell explaining why batting great Younis Khan chose to mentor Afghanistan over his country during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025</a>. After the hosts got knocked out of the home tournament in the group stage, courtesy of two losses and a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/pakistan-remain-winless-in-home-champions-trophy-after-washed-out-bangladesh-tie-8762162" rel="dofollow">washed-out tie</a>, while Afghanistan remained in contention for a historic semis spot, Rashid said the lack of financial benefits forced Younis to pick their opponent for the mentorship role.
Younis joined Afghanistan&rsquo;s backroom staff ahead of the eight-team tournament as the mentor, joining head coach Jonathan Trott, under whom Afghanistan tasted enormous success in the past two years. Younis&rsquo; signing proved vital for Afghanistan, who posted a mammoth 325 against England in their do-or-die game in Lahore, emerging as winners eventually by eight runs.
Already upbeat to take on any cricketing giant on a bigger stage, Afghanistan&rsquo;s batting looked composed, impressing all. How their middle order contributed against lethal English bowlers indicated how far they have come in international cricket.&nbsp;
On the other end, Pakistan batters lacked zeal and intent and looked timid during their two matches against New Zealand and India, losing both. While they failed to chase 321 in the tournament opener in Karachi, Pakistan couldn&rsquo;t defend a paltry 242 against their arch-rivals, with Virat Kohli scoring a match-winning hundred.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/afg-vs-aus-live-streaming-free-when-and-where-to-watch-champions-trophy-2025-afghanistan-vs-australia-live-for-free-online-mobile-ott-tv-8762839" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Prime minister will personally take notice&rsquo;: Pakistan&rsquo;s early Champions Trophy exit to be &lsquo;raised in parliament&rsquo;</a>
&ldquo;Younis Khan said no to Pakistan cricket to work with Afghanistan. There are no financial benefits here," Latif said during a Geo News show episode after Afghanistan knocked England out of Champions Trophy 2025.
Meanwhile, Naseeb Khan, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) chief executive, defended this appointment.
"Since the Champions Trophy is being held in Pakistan, it was essential to appoint an experienced and talented mentor from the host country. We have previously benefited from working with mentors from host nations during the 2023 ODI World Cup and the 2024 T20 World Cup,&rdquo; he explained.
<h2>Afghanistan up for Aussie challenge</h2>
Unlike Pakistan, who got knocked out from the home tournament just six days into it, Afghanistan could create history in their maiden Champions Trophy appearance by qualifying for the semis.
Having lost one game (against South Africa) and winning the other (against England), Afghanistan&rsquo;s last league match is against the ODI giants Australia, who sit one clear of them on the table in Group B.&nbsp;
Although the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rain-threatens-to-spoil-afghanistan-australia-champions-trophy-showdown-in-lahore-8764190" rel="dofollow">rain is likely to play the spoilsport in Lahore</a>, should the game go ahead, Afghanistan must cause the upset of the tournament to cruise ahead or else, even after sharing points in case of a wash-out, Afghanistan could miss out on a historic semis spot.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Younis joined Afghanistan’s backroom staff as the mentor, joining head coach Trott, under whom Afghanistan tasted enormous success in the past two years.

Former Pakistan captain and gloveman Rashid Latif dropped a bombshell explaining why batting great Younis Khan chose to mentor Afghanistan over his country during the Champions Trophy 2025. After the hosts got knocked out of the home tournament in the group stage, courtesy of two losses and a washed-out tie, while Afghanistan remained in contention for a historic semis spot, Rashid said the lack of financial benefits forced Younis to pick their opponent for the mentorship role. Younis joined Afghanistan’s backroom staff ahead of the eight-team tournament as the mentor, joining head coach Jonathan Trott, under whom Afghanistan tasted enormous success in the past two years. Younis’ signing proved vital for Afghanistan, who posted a mammoth 325 against England in their do-or-die game in Lahore, emerging as winners eventually by eight runs. Already upbeat to take on any cricketing giant on a bigger stage, Afghanistan’s batting looked composed, impressing all. How their middle order contributed against lethal English bowlers indicated how far they have come in international cricket. On the other end, Pakistan batters lacked zeal and intent and looked timid during their two matches against New Zealand and India, losing both. While they failed to chase 321 in the tournament opener in Karachi, Pakistan couldn’t defend a paltry 242 against their arch-rivals, with Virat Kohli scoring a match-winning hundred. Also read | ‘Prime minister will personally take notice’: Pakistan’s early Champions Trophy exit to be ‘raised in parliament’ “Younis Khan said no to Pakistan cricket to work with Afghanistan. There are no financial benefits here," Latif said during a Geo News show episode after Afghanistan knocked England out of Champions Trophy 2025. Meanwhile, Naseeb Khan, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) chief executive, defended this appointment. "Since the Champions Trophy is being held in Pakistan, it was essential to appoint an experienced and talented mentor from the host country. We have previously benefited from working with mentors from host nations during the 2023 ODI World Cup and the 2024 T20 World Cup,” he explained. Afghanistan up for Aussie challenge Unlike Pakistan, who got knocked out from the home tournament just six days into it, Afghanistan could create history in their maiden Champions Trophy appearance by qualifying for the semis. Having lost one game (against South Africa) and winning the other (against England), Afghanistan’s last league match is against the ODI giants Australia, who sit one clear of them on the table in Group B. Although the rain is likely to play the spoilsport in Lahore, should the game go ahead, Afghanistan must cause the upset of the tournament to cruise ahead or else, even after sharing points in case of a wash-out, Afghanistan could miss out on a historic semis spot. (With inputs from agencies)

Rashid Latif explains what forced Younis Khan to choose Afghanistan over Pakistan

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/wasim-akram" rel="dofollow">Wasim Akram</a> is perhaps the greatest left-arm pacer in cricket history; none comes close to his calibre and achievements across formats, but even that is not enough for him to sit at the pedestal as his former teammate and Pakistan captain Rashid Latif feels a certain someone from Afghanistan is a mightier cricketer than him. The player in question here is the star all-rounder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rashid-khan" rel="dofollow">Rashid Khan</a>.
While Pakistan had a rich cricketing history even before Wasim emerged on the international scene, with several world-class cricketers rocking in Tests and ODIs, Rashid&rsquo;s influence on Afghanistan&rsquo;s cricket has helped them get global recognition, something Latif feels is of a higher achievement than any on the cricket field.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-former-india-cricketer-pinpoints-pakistans-achilles-heel-8725806" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025: Former India cricketer pinpoints Pakistan&rsquo;s achilles' heel</a>
&ldquo;Rashid has brought Afghanistan on the map; he has helped them get recognition,&rdquo; Rashid Latif said on &lsquo;Hasna Mana Hai&rsquo; - a talk show on Geo News.
&ldquo;He is greater than Wasim Akram.
&ldquo;I am sorry (to say), but Rashid&rsquo;s stature is bigger,&rdquo; he continued.
However, per the records, Wasim Akram picked 916 international wickets (414 in Tests and 502 in ODIs) in 460 matches, besides winning the 1992 ODI World Cup in Australia. He even picked up a hat-trick in the final against England.&nbsp;
On the other hand, Rashid has already picked over 400 international wickets across three formats.&nbsp;
<h2>Latif&rsquo;s only advice to Rashid</h2>
Although Rashid Khan remains the best spinner from Afghanistan, especially considering his records in the shorter formats, Latif has just one piece of advice for the ace all-rounder, urging him to improve his Test side and play more red-ball matches against Pakistan.
&ldquo;I have only one piece of advice for Rashid Khan. &lsquo;Improve your test team and play more Test matches against Pakistan,'&rdquo; Latif added.
Meanwhile, Afghanistan is gearing up for the first showpiece event of the year &ndash; the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy-2025" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a> in Pakistan. Placed in Group B, Afghanistan will take on ODI heavyweights like Australia, England and South Africa in their league matches, and should they win two of the three games, they can qualify for their maiden semis in this eight-team tournament.
Afghanistan will open their campaign against South Africa (on February 21 in Karachi), whom they defeated across three ODIs late last year before taking on England (Feb 26) and Australia (Feb 28) in their remaining two matches.
<h3>Afghanistan&rsquo;s Champions Trophy squad &ndash;</h3>
Hashmatullah Shahidi (captain), Ibrahim Zadran, Ikram Alikhil (wk), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah (vice-captain), Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Fareeh Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Nangeyalia Kharote, Naveed Zadran and Noor Ahmad
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: While Wasim Akram has picked 916 international wickets in 460 matches, Rashid has already picked over 400 international wickets across three formats.

Wasim Akram is perhaps the greatest left-arm pacer in cricket history; none comes close to his calibre and achievements across formats, but even that is not enough for him to sit at the pedestal as his former teammate and Pakistan captain Rashid Latif feels a certain someone from Afghanistan is a mightier cricketer than him. The player in question here is the star all-rounder Rashid Khan. While Pakistan had a rich cricketing history even before Wasim emerged on the international scene, with several world-class cricketers rocking in Tests and ODIs, Rashid’s influence on Afghanistan’s cricket has helped them get global recognition, something Latif feels is of a higher achievement than any on the cricket field. Also read | Champions Trophy 2025: Former India cricketer pinpoints Pakistan’s achilles' heel “Rashid has brought Afghanistan on the map; he has helped them get recognition,” Rashid Latif said on ‘Hasna Mana Hai’ - a talk show on Geo News. “He is greater than Wasim Akram. “I am sorry (to say), but Rashid’s stature is bigger,” he continued. However, per the records, Wasim Akram picked 916 international wickets (414 in Tests and 502 in ODIs) in 460 matches, besides winning the 1992 ODI World Cup in Australia. He even picked up a hat-trick in the final against England. On the other hand, Rashid has already picked over 400 international wickets across three formats. Latif’s only advice to Rashid Although Rashid Khan remains the best spinner from Afghanistan, especially considering his records in the shorter formats, Latif has just one piece of advice for the ace all-rounder, urging him to improve his Test side and play more red-ball matches against Pakistan. “I have only one piece of advice for Rashid Khan. ‘Improve your test team and play more Test matches against Pakistan,'” Latif added. Meanwhile, Afghanistan is gearing up for the first showpiece event of the year – the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan. Placed in Group B, Afghanistan will take on ODI heavyweights like Australia, England and South Africa in their league matches, and should they win two of the three games, they can qualify for their maiden semis in this eight-team tournament. Afghanistan will open their campaign against South Africa (on February 21 in Karachi), whom they defeated across three ODIs late last year before taking on England (Feb 26) and Australia (Feb 28) in their remaining two matches. Afghanistan’s Champions Trophy squad – Hashmatullah Shahidi (captain), Ibrahim Zadran, Ikram Alikhil (wk), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah (vice-captain), Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Fareeh Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Nangeyalia Kharote, Naveed Zadran and Noor Ahmad (With inputs from agencies)

Rashid Latif hails Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan, calls him bigger cricketer than Wasim Akram

Just days after Pakistan squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 was announced, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has criticised the squad, calling it a &lsquo;political selection.&rsquo; He blamed the national selection committee for making unexpected choices, raising eyebrows over some inclusions.
The squad, revealed on Friday, saw all-rounder Faheem Ashraf make a surprising comeback after two years on the sidelines. His sudden inclusion has sparked debate, with an old picture of him meeting former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif resurfacing, fuelling speculation about his selection route.
&ldquo;It looks like a politically motivated selection,&rdquo; Latif alleged while speaking to Telecomasia.net. &ldquo;Faheem has neither recent performances nor an impressive record to justify his return.&rdquo;
Once a top contender for Pakistan&rsquo;s white-ball team, Ashraf&rsquo;s form had declined. His ODI stats reflect this: in 34 ODIs, he has taken only 26 wickets at an average of 46.30, while his batting record stands at a mere 10.66 across 24 innings, with a highest score of 28.
As per reports, Aamer Jamal was initially the preferred choice but was dropped at the last minute to accommodate Ashraf. Other surprises include the return of all-rounder Khushdil Shah and wicketkeeper-batter Usman Khan, who is yet to make his ODI debut.
&ldquo;The squad includes players like Ashraf, Fakhar, and Saud Shakeel, who were not in the system during the last three tours. Now, it&rsquo;s up to captain Mohammad Rizwan to pick the best playing XI, just as Imran Khan did in 1992 and Younis Khan in 2009,&rdquo; he remarked.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/batting-great-sachin-tendulkar-conferred-with-ck-nayudu-lifetime-achievement-award-8682178">Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar conferred with C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award</a> Latif also expressed hope that promoting Babar Azam as an opener would be a successful gamble. However, he raised concerns about Pakistan&rsquo;s bowling strategy in the crucial middle overs.&nbsp;&ldquo;I think Babar will do well as an opener, but the bigger issue is who will take wickets between overs 11-20 and 31-40. That was our Achilles&rsquo; heel in the 2023 World Cup,&rdquo; he added.
<h2>Squad selection is a joke: Tanveer</h2>
Meanwhile, former Pakistan pacer Tanveer Ahmed minced no words in his criticism, labelling the squad selection as a 'joke'.
&ldquo;We have picked a squad that doesn&rsquo;t suit our own conditions,&rdquo; Tanveer told Telecomasia.net. &ldquo;Look at India&mdash;they have four quality spinners in Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, and Axar Patel. And what do we have? Just one&mdash;Abrar Ahmed!&rdquo;
He accused the selectors of favouritism, claiming, &ldquo;This is a recommendation-based selection, and the selection committee will be responsible for its consequences. There was no need to tamper with the squad that performed so well on the last three tours.&rdquo;
Pakistan kicks off their champions trophy campaign against New Zealand in Karachi on February 19. Their clash against arch-rivals India is scheduled for February 23 in Dubai, followed by their final league match against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on February 27.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: The former Pakistan captain has blamed the national selection committee for making unexpected choices, raising eyebrows over some inclusions

Just days after Pakistan squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 was announced, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has criticised the squad, calling it a ‘political selection.’ He blamed the national selection committee for making unexpected choices, raising eyebrows over some inclusions. The squad, revealed on Friday, saw all-rounder Faheem Ashraf make a surprising comeback after two years on the sidelines. His sudden inclusion has sparked debate, with an old picture of him meeting former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif resurfacing, fuelling speculation about his selection route. “It looks like a politically motivated selection,” Latif alleged while speaking to Telecomasia.net. “Faheem has neither recent performances nor an impressive record to justify his return.” Once a top contender for Pakistan’s white-ball team, Ashraf’s form had declined. His ODI stats reflect this: in 34 ODIs, he has taken only 26 wickets at an average of 46.30, while his batting record stands at a mere 10.66 across 24 innings, with a highest score of 28. As per reports, Aamer Jamal was initially the preferred choice but was dropped at the last minute to accommodate Ashraf. Other surprises include the return of all-rounder Khushdil Shah and wicketkeeper-batter Usman Khan, who is yet to make his ODI debut. “The squad includes players like Ashraf, Fakhar, and Saud Shakeel, who were not in the system during the last three tours. Now, it’s up to captain Mohammad Rizwan to pick the best playing XI, just as Imran Khan did in 1992 and Younis Khan in 2009,” he remarked. Also Read: Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar conferred with C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award Latif also expressed hope that promoting Babar Azam as an opener would be a successful gamble. However, he raised concerns about Pakistan’s bowling strategy in the crucial middle overs. “I think Babar will do well as an opener, but the bigger issue is who will take wickets between overs 11-20 and 31-40. That was our Achilles’ heel in the 2023 World Cup,” he added. Squad selection is a joke: Tanveer Meanwhile, former Pakistan pacer Tanveer Ahmed minced no words in his criticism, labelling the squad selection as a 'joke'. “We have picked a squad that doesn’t suit our own conditions,” Tanveer told Telecomasia.net. “Look at India—they have four quality spinners in Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, and Axar Patel. And what do we have? Just one—Abrar Ahmed!” He accused the selectors of favouritism, claiming, “This is a recommendation-based selection, and the selection committee will be responsible for its consequences. There was no need to tamper with the squad that performed so well on the last three tours.” Pakistan kicks off their champions trophy campaign against New Zealand in Karachi on February 19. Their clash against arch-rivals India is scheduled for February 23 in Dubai, followed by their final league match against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on February 27. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Former captain Rashid Latif slams Pakistan squad as ‘political selection'

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Former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif on Saturday (Jan 25) said that Indian senior duo <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma">Rohit Sharma</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a> are being targeted for their red-ball form and are forced to play domestic cricket ahead of the white-ball tournaments.&nbsp;
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Rohit turned up for Mumbai in their ongoing Ranji Trophy match against Jammu &amp; Kashmir. He scored 3 and 28 runs in the match. Meanwhile, Kohli will join Delhi's squad for the match against Railways from January 30.&nbsp;
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Other than the star duo, members of the Test squad that faced a 1-3 defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia are also featuring for their respective state sides for the latest round of Ranji Trophy matches. The other notable players include Yashasvi Jaiswal (Mumbai), Rishabh Pant (Delhi), Ravindra Jadeja (Saurashtra) and Shubman Gill (Punjab).&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-eng-2nd-t20i-varun-chakravarthy-attributes-domestic-cricket-for-his-t20i-career-boom-says-smat-is-at-par-with-ipl-8652112">IND vs ENG 2nd T20I: Varun attributes domestic cricket for his T20I career boom</a> 
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Latif said that Rohit and Kohli should focus on their upcoming white-ball tournaments against England and next month&rsquo;s Champions Trophy in Dubai.&nbsp;
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Latif said that due to the busy international calendar, players don&rsquo;t get much time to play domestic cricket. He went on to say that the star duo played two World Cup finals in the last two years without playing domestic cricket.&nbsp;
<h2 class="Paragraph SCXW169062253 BCX0" lang="EN-US" paraid="433085391" paraeid="{7cce9581-a817-48ac-a2ac-951d36acae50}{90}">White-ball is a totally different game: Rashid</h2>
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&ldquo;There is no time for players to play domestic cricket due to the packed international calendar. If needed they should play domestic cricket but due to the targeting of Rohit and Virat, they&rsquo;re forcing everyone to play domestic cricket. In the past, barring <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sachin-tendulkar">Sachin Tendulkar</a>, others have not played much domestic cricket... Rohit and Virat have won the T20 World Cup and reached the final of the ODI World Cup without playing domestic cricket. They will next play the ODI series against England so they should prepare for it as white-ball is a totally different game,&rdquo; Latif was quoted saying to IANS news agency.<span class="EOP SCXW169062253 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
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Rohit and Kohli will feature in the three-match ODI series against England starting on February 6. Both teams are currently playing the five-match T20I series. India started with a thumping win at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata in the first T20I.
(With inputs from agencies)
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Sports, Cricket: Rohit turned up for Mumbai in match against J&K. He scored 3 and 28 runs. Meanwhile, Kohli will join Delhi's squad for match against Railways from Jan 30

Former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif on Saturday (Jan 25) said that Indian senior duo Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are being targeted for their red-ball form and are forced to play domestic cricket ahead of the white-ball tournaments. Rohit turned up for Mumbai in their ongoing Ranji Trophy match against Jammu & Kashmir. He scored 3 and 28 runs in the match. Meanwhile, Kohli will join Delhi's squad for the match against Railways from January 30. Other than the star duo, members of the Test squad that faced a 1-3 defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia are also featuring for their respective state sides for the latest round of Ranji Trophy matches. The other notable players include Yashasvi Jaiswal (Mumbai), Rishabh Pant (Delhi), Ravindra Jadeja (Saurashtra) and Shubman Gill (Punjab). Also Read: IND vs ENG 2nd T20I: Varun attributes domestic cricket for his T20I career boom Latif said that Rohit and Kohli should focus on their upcoming white-ball tournaments against England and next month’s Champions Trophy in Dubai. Latif said that due to the busy international calendar, players don’t get much time to play domestic cricket. He went on to say that the star duo played two World Cup finals in the last two years without playing domestic cricket. White-ball is a totally different game: Rashid “There is no time for players to play domestic cricket due to the packed international calendar. If needed they should play domestic cricket but due to the targeting of Rohit and Virat, they’re forcing everyone to play domestic cricket. In the past, barring Sachin Tendulkar, others have not played much domestic cricket... Rohit and Virat have won the T20 World Cup and reached the final of the ODI World Cup without playing domestic cricket. They will next play the ODI series against England so they should prepare for it as white-ball is a totally different game,” Latif was quoted saying to IANS news agency. Rohit and Kohli will feature in the three-match ODI series against England starting on February 6. Both teams are currently playing the five-match T20I series. India started with a thumping win at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata in the first T20I. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Rohit, Kohli are being forced to play...’ says former Pak cricketer Rashid Latif

Former Pakistan captain and veteran gloveman Rashid Latif has slammed BCCI’s reasoning of ‘security concerns’ not solid enough for them not to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025. The latest reports suggest that the BCCI has conveyed to ICC their decision not to allow the Men in Blue to travel across the border for the eight-team tournament, scheduled for February-March next year.

Furious over BCCI’s decision, Latif said if BCCI decides against sending its team to Pakistan, the hosts must consider boycotting this tournament altogether. His bold statement came after BCCI pushed for a neutral venue for all India games, with Dubai emerging as the top option.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-to-fly-with-bgt-bound-india-squad-but-perth-test-participation-remains-uncertain-report-774830">BGT: Rohit Sharma to fly to Australia but Perth Test participation remains uncertain – Report</a>

Latif continued by saying that it’s not any bilateral series that BCCI can refuse to travel to Pakistan and that it’s an ICC event for which India, like all other participating nations, signed up, and on those grounds, must adhere to it.

“This is an ICC event. The cycle has been signed from 2024-2031. All the broadcasters and sponsors have signed about the teams that will participate in the Champions Trophy or the World Cup," Latif said during the Geo News show.

“If a team denies to participate, they need to have a solid reason to justify their call. Just like in 1996, the West Indies and Australia did not go to Sri Lanka but still reached the final. If you make a reason for security, then it is not a solid reason. Teams like Australia, New Zealand, England, and South Africa are coming to Pakistan," he added.

<h2>ICC exist because of India and Pakistan</h2>

India vs Pakistan matches across all levels are the marquee yet money-making clashes, and considering how impactful it is monetary-wise, the ICC make the most out of this game. Latif said if the Pakistani Board follows BCCI’s path and decides not to show up for an ICC event like their counterpart is doing for this one, the ICC will be of no use and suffer massive losses.

“ICC is existing only because there is Pakistan and India. If the government of Pakistan also says that we won’t play, then the ICC will be of no use as no one will watch the match," Rashid said.&nbsp;

“We can say that India does not want to play bilateral matches, but you can’t deny the ICC events as you already have signed it. India has to make solid ground. If India doesn’t come, Pakistan will take a big step by not participating in the tournament," he added.

Meanwhile, the PCB was supposed to release the final Champions Trophy schedule by Monday (Nov 11), but with BCCI denying sending its team for the tournament, what modifications will be made to it is yet to be seen.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Pakistan captain and veteran gloveman Rashid Latif has slammed BCCI’s reasoning of ‘security concerns’ not solid enough for them not to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025.

Former Pakistan captain and veteran gloveman Rashid Latif has slammed BCCI’s reasoning of ‘security concerns’ not solid enough for them not to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025. The latest reports suggest that the BCCI has conveyed to ICC their decision not to allow the Men in Blue to travel across the border for the eight-team tournament, scheduled for February-March next year. Furious over BCCI’s decision, Latif said if BCCI decides against sending its team to Pakistan, the hosts must consider boycotting this tournament altogether. His bold statement came after BCCI pushed for a neutral venue for all India games, with Dubai emerging as the top option. ALSO READ: BGT: Rohit Sharma to fly to Australia but Perth Test participation remains uncertain – Report Latif continued by saying that it’s not any bilateral series that BCCI can refuse to travel to Pakistan and that it’s an ICC event for which India, like all other participating nations, signed up, and on those grounds, must adhere to it. “This is an ICC event. The cycle has been signed from 2024-2031. All the broadcasters and sponsors have signed about the teams that will participate in the Champions Trophy or the World Cup," Latif said during the Geo News show. “If a team denies to participate, they need to have a solid reason to justify their call. Just like in 1996, the West Indies and Australia did not go to Sri Lanka but still reached the final. If you make a reason for security, then it is not a solid reason. Teams like Australia, New Zealand, England, and South Africa are coming to Pakistan," he added. ICC exist because of India and Pakistan India vs Pakistan matches across all levels are the marquee yet money-making clashes, and considering how impactful it is monetary-wise, the ICC make the most out of this game. Latif said if the Pakistani Board follows BCCI’s path and decides not to show up for an ICC event like their counterpart is doing for this one, the ICC will be of no use and suffer massive losses. “ICC is existing only because there is Pakistan and India. If the government of Pakistan also says that we won’t play, then the ICC will be of no use as no one will watch the match," Rashid said. “We can say that India does not want to play bilateral matches, but you can’t deny the ICC events as you already have signed it. India has to make solid ground. If India doesn’t come, Pakistan will take a big step by not participating in the tournament," he added. Meanwhile, the PCB was supposed to release the final Champions Trophy schedule by Monday (Nov 11), but with BCCI denying sending its team for the tournament, what modifications will be made to it is yet to be seen. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Security concern is not...,’ Rashid Latif slams India for not travelling to Pakistan for Champions Trophy

Former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif has hit out at Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairmen for 'destroying the team.' The comments come after 0-2 Test series loss against Bangladesh at home.

"Whoever became the chairman in the last four years has demolished Pakistan cricket," said Latif on his show 'Caught Behind.'

"Who brought him (Shan Masood) as (Test) captain? Who removed Babar Azam (from captaincy)? Who divided the Pakistan team?" Latif continued. "So what is he doing at this juncture? Giving interviews?"

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Thank You Zaka Ashraf Saheb <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvsBAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvsBAN</a> <a href="https://t.co/GO8NjvPSPT">pic.twitter.com/GO8NjvPSPT</a>
— Rashid Latif | 🇵🇰 (@iRashidLatif68) <a href="https://twitter.com/iRashidLatif68/status/1831071003495297521?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"Whose responsibility is it to make the team - Ashraf or Misbah's, asked the former Pak cricketer, questioning the role of Misbah-ul-Haq as an adviser to Ashraf and head of a cricket committee.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/border-gavaskar-trophy-india-will-make-australia-run-in-their-own-backyard-claims-former-bcci-chief-selector-755802">Border-Gavaskar Trophy: India will make Australia run in their own backyard, claims former BCCI chief selector</a>

"When he (Ashraf) was doing everything, making team and appointing captains, who is he blaming then - Babar?" Latif further said. "You forcibly made Babar resign. The team started disintegrating from there itself. It was you who made Shan the captain for your own benefit, to break the team. So your team is broken now," added Latif.

Pakistan cricket is in turmoil ever since failing to qualify for the ODI World Cup 2023 semifinals. Babar Azam was removed from captaincy across formats, and Shan Masood was named his replacement in Tests along with Shaheen Shah Afridi in T20Is.

The changes, however, didn't work any wonder as Pakistan lost both Test and T20I series in Australia, forcing another change which saw Babar return to captaincy in the shortest format.

The chairmen kept changing as well, while all this drama happened in Pakistan cricket before Mohsin Naqvi was elected.

All of this comes at a time when Pakistan are gearing up to host ICC Champions Trophy early next year. It'll be their first ICC tournament since jointly hosting 1996 ODI World Cup with India and Sri Lanka.

Former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif has hit out at Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairmen for 'destroying the team.' The comments come after 0-2 Test series loss against Bangladesh at home.

Former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif has hit out at Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairmen for 'destroying the team.' The comments come after 0-2 Test series loss against Bangladesh at home. "Whoever became the chairman in the last four years has demolished Pakistan cricket," said Latif on his show 'Caught Behind.' "Who brought him (Shan Masood) as (Test) captain? Who removed Babar Azam (from captaincy)? Who divided the Pakistan team?" Latif continued. "So what is he doing at this juncture? Giving interviews?" Thank You Zaka Ashraf Saheb #PAKvsBAN pic.twitter.com/GO8NjvPSPT — Rashid Latif | 🇵🇰 (@iRashidLatif68) September 3, 2024 × "Whose responsibility is it to make the team - Ashraf or Misbah's, asked the former Pak cricketer, questioning the role of Misbah-ul-Haq as an adviser to Ashraf and head of a cricket committee. Also Read: Border-Gavaskar Trophy: India will make Australia run in their own backyard, claims former BCCI chief selector "When he (Ashraf) was doing everything, making team and appointing captains, who is he blaming then - Babar?" Latif further said. "You forcibly made Babar resign. The team started disintegrating from there itself. It was you who made Shan the captain for your own benefit, to break the team. So your team is broken now," added Latif. Pakistan cricket is in turmoil ever since failing to qualify for the ODI World Cup 2023 semifinals. Babar Azam was removed from captaincy across formats, and Shan Masood was named his replacement in Tests along with Shaheen Shah Afridi in T20Is. The changes, however, didn't work any wonder as Pakistan lost both Test and T20I series in Australia, forcing another change which saw Babar return to captaincy in the shortest format. The chairmen kept changing as well, while all this drama happened in Pakistan cricket before Mohsin Naqvi was elected. All of this comes at a time when Pakistan are gearing up to host ICC Champions Trophy early next year. It'll be their first ICC tournament since jointly hosting 1996 ODI World Cup with India and Sri Lanka.

'Team started disintegrating from...,' Ex-Pak cricketer Rashid Latif blames PCB chairmen for Bangladesh loss

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif slammed Babar Azam for his inability to change his T20I approach following the Men in Green's shambolic T20 World Cup 2024 campaign. Under Babar, Pakistan failed to even reach the Super 8s in the 20-nation mega event, in West Indies and the USA. Babar-led Pakistan also lost to USA and many questions were raised on their captain's sluggish approach with the bat. Babar ended with&nbsp;122 runs at a strike-rate of 101.66 in four matches. Thus, Latif lashed out at Babar for not being able to alter his T20I approach, saying 'if Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli can, why can't Babar?'

Latif told ProSports as quoted by PakPassion on X, formerly known as Twitter, "If Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli can change their approach in T20Is, then why can't Babar Azam? I would like to cite Rohit Sharma's example. You saw how he evolved his game in the 50-over format. He has made himself a role model. In this year's IPL, he had close to 140 strike rate. If he can change his game, everyone can. He did not do this overnight, he had to work on his game. India showed they can do this. This is not a problem of the player but a problem of the ones who make them play."

Rohit and Kohli impressed one and all with their attacking intent in the T20 WC. While Rohit had a successful run, with 257 runs (second-most&nbsp;overall), Kohli had an ordinary campaign before turning up with a fine 59-ball 76 in the final -- where India beat South Africa by 7 runs in Barbados on June 29. Post the mega event, both also retired from T20Is. Rohit signed off with 4,231 runs -- most-ever -- with Kohli following him at the second spot with 4,188 runs.

Latif further also gave Babar and his opening partner Mohammad Rizwan an ultimatum by saying, "I would give Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan five matches to change their batting approach in T20Is and if they won't, then there should be no place in the team for them."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-champions-india-to-meet-pm-modi-in-new-delhi-to-head-to-mumbai-for-open-bus-parade-737456">T20 world champions India to meet PM Modi in New Delhi, to head to Mumbai for open bus parade</a>

Latif further lamented that Babar should not have accepted taking over as the white-ball captain when he was offered the post once again early this year. Notably, Babar resigned as Pakistan's full-time captain post the ODI WC in India in 2023. However, he was reappointed as the limited-overs skipper before the just-concluded T20 WC.

The former Pakistani cricketer added, "Babar Azam shouldn't have been removed as captain after the ODI World Cup in India. Shaheen came in to replace him. But Babar's second tenure as captain was weak. Babar looked weak. This is not the way team selection should be done. Babar didn't fight ( in the T20 World Cup). His biggest mistake was accepting the captaincy again. If he continues as captain, it will be an even bigger mistake."

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif slammed Babar Azam for his inability to change his T20I approach following the Men in Green's shambolic T20 World Cup 2024 campaign.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif slammed Babar Azam for his inability to change his T20I approach following the Men in Green's shambolic T20 World Cup 2024 campaign. Under Babar, Pakistan failed to even reach the Super 8s in the 20-nation mega event, in West Indies and the USA. Babar-led Pakistan also lost to USA and many questions were raised on their captain's sluggish approach with the bat. Babar ended with 122 runs at a strike-rate of 101.66 in four matches. Thus, Latif lashed out at Babar for not being able to alter his T20I approach, saying 'if Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli can, why can't Babar?' Latif told ProSports as quoted by PakPassion on X, formerly known as Twitter, "If Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli can change their approach in T20Is, then why can't Babar Azam? I would like to cite Rohit Sharma's example. You saw how he evolved his game in the 50-over format. He has made himself a role model. In this year's IPL, he had close to 140 strike rate. If he can change his game, everyone can. He did not do this overnight, he had to work on his game. India showed they can do this. This is not a problem of the player but a problem of the ones who make them play." Rohit and Kohli impressed one and all with their attacking intent in the T20 WC. While Rohit had a successful run, with 257 runs (second-most overall), Kohli had an ordinary campaign before turning up with a fine 59-ball 76 in the final -- where India beat South Africa by 7 runs in Barbados on June 29. Post the mega event, both also retired from T20Is. Rohit signed off with 4,231 runs -- most-ever -- with Kohli following him at the second spot with 4,188 runs. Latif further also gave Babar and his opening partner Mohammad Rizwan an ultimatum by saying, "I would give Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan five matches to change their batting approach in T20Is and if they won't, then there should be no place in the team for them." Also read: T20 world champions India to meet PM Modi in New Delhi, to head to Mumbai for open bus parade Latif further lamented that Babar should not have accepted taking over as the white-ball captain when he was offered the post once again early this year. Notably, Babar resigned as Pakistan's full-time captain post the ODI WC in India in 2023. However, he was reappointed as the limited-overs skipper before the just-concluded T20 WC. The former Pakistani cricketer added, "Babar Azam shouldn't have been removed as captain after the ODI World Cup in India. Shaheen came in to replace him. But Babar's second tenure as captain was weak. Babar looked weak. This is not the way team selection should be done. Babar didn't fight ( in the T20 World Cup). His biggest mistake was accepting the captaincy again. If he continues as captain, it will be an even bigger mistake."

If Rohit and Kohli can change their T20I approach, why can’t Babar, questions former Pakistan captain

Indian batting great Virat Kohli is the most recognisable cricketer worldwide, with his popularity breaking barriers across borders. Currently in the USA for the ongoing 2024 T20 World Cup, Kohli is not only praised and worshipped by billions in his country but looked up to as a cult figure in Pakistan also, with former captain Rashid Latif admitting that Virat's popularity in his country is at par with the late Hindi cinema veteran Dilip Kumar and star celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan.

Considering social media’s rise in the past decade, Virat’s popularity on top applications like Instagram, Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) has gone off the roof, with more than 380 million followers combined on these three platforms.

Outside of these numbers, the legacy he carved with unparalleled numbers and unmatched success as a batter is grander than one thinks.

Amid India gearing up to take on arch-rivals Pakistan in the marquee T20 World Cup clash in New York, two former Pakistan captains, Azhar Ali and Latif, explain Virat’s craze across the border.&nbsp;

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ویرات کولی ءِ اکس گْوادر ءِ تیاب ءَ 
 
ساچان بلوچ ءِ سینڈ آرٹ، ویرات کولی ءِ اکس۔ گْوادر ءِ تیاب دپ ءَ۔ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gwadar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gwadar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Balochistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Balochistan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli%F0%93%83%B5?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli𓃵</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> @AsiaCup_23 <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ICC</a> <a href="https://t.co/MIvvNNkI53">pic.twitter.com/MIvvNNkI53</a>
— Gwadar_e_Tawar (@gwadar_e_tawar) <a href="https://twitter.com/gwadar_e_tawar/status/1698205982600401023?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-focus-remains-on-real-time-action-as-rohit-kirsten-play-it-simple-ahead-of-india-pakistan-match-730093">T20 WC: Focus remains on real-time action as Rohit, Kirsten ‘play it simple’ ahead of India-Pakistan match</a>

In an exclusive chat with the Indian Express, Latif said despite several differences on countless grounds, Pakistani fans love Virat Kohli like anything.&nbsp;

“It’s not like that Virat is the first one with such a big fan base in Pakistan,” Latif said.&nbsp;

“If you go back, Dilip Kumar had a massive fan following in Pakistan. Sunil Gavaskar became a cult in Pakistan. Young batsmen were told to copy Gavaskar Saab’s technique. Then Amitabh Bachchan’s ‘Angry Young Man’ movies used to get sold out. Then came Kapil Dev, Sachin Tendulkar, Shah Rukh Khan, MS Dhoni. When Dhoni came here his long locks became a trend.

“But Virat’s popularity in Pakistan is on par with Dilip Saab, Mr Bachchan and Shah Rukh. Like in India, you guys loved our bowlers – Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and Shoaib Akhtar became household names. Here in Pakistan, we adored Gavaskar Saab, Tendulkar, then Dhoni and now Kohli – they are all icons. Yuvraj Singh and Virender Sehwag too have a good fan following in Pakistan,” Latif added.

<h2>Virat led a fitness revolution</h2>

Although Sourav Ganguly and MS Dhoni are considered two great Indian captains who changed their cricket for good, Azhar Ali said how Virat led the fitness revolution among the Asian fraternity is fantastic. &nbsp;

“First and foremost, he has changed Indian cricket. You can debate that Sourav Ganguly and MS Dhoni have also played a role. But when it comes to fitness, there is no one like Virat Kohli. He has led by example. He is a role model to all the youths.

“Now, in our part of the world, we have someone who is the most fit athlete. Earlier, we used to give examples of athletes from the West. Now Virat has set that bar. The Pakistani youths are fascinated by the sacrifices he has made. You see his interviews where he is talking about how he quit having his favourite food (Chole Bhature) for cricket,” Azhar continued.&nbsp;

Indian batting great Virat Kohli is the most recognisable cricketer worldwide, with his popularity breaking barriers across borders. Currently in the USA for the ongoing 2024 T20 World Cup, Kohli is not only praised and worshipped by billions in his country but looked up to as a cult figure in Pakistan also, with former captain Rashid Latif admitting that Virat's popularity in his country is at par with the late Hindi cinema veteran Dilip Kumar and star celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan.

Indian batting great Virat Kohli is the most recognisable cricketer worldwide, with his popularity breaking barriers across borders. Currently in the USA for the ongoing 2024 T20 World Cup, Kohli is not only praised and worshipped by billions in his country but looked up to as a cult figure in Pakistan also, with former captain Rashid Latif admitting that Virat's popularity in his country is at par with the late Hindi cinema veteran Dilip Kumar and star celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan. Considering social media’s rise in the past decade, Virat’s popularity on top applications like Instagram, Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) has gone off the roof, with more than 380 million followers combined on these three platforms. Outside of these numbers, the legacy he carved with unparalleled numbers and unmatched success as a batter is grander than one thinks. Amid India gearing up to take on arch-rivals Pakistan in the marquee T20 World Cup clash in New York, two former Pakistan captains, Azhar Ali and Latif, explain Virat’s craze across the border. ویرات کولی ءِ اکس گْوادر ءِ تیاب ءَ ساچان بلوچ ءِ سینڈ آرٹ، ویرات کولی ءِ اکس۔ گْوادر ءِ تیاب دپ ءَ۔ #Gwadar #Balochistan #ViratKohli𓃵 @imVkohli @AsiaCup_23 @ICC pic.twitter.com/MIvvNNkI53 — Gwadar_e_Tawar (@gwadar_e_tawar) September 3, 2023 × ALSO READ: T20 WC: Focus remains on real-time action as Rohit, Kirsten ‘play it simple’ ahead of India-Pakistan match In an exclusive chat with the Indian Express, Latif said despite several differences on countless grounds, Pakistani fans love Virat Kohli like anything. “It’s not like that Virat is the first one with such a big fan base in Pakistan,” Latif said. “If you go back, Dilip Kumar had a massive fan following in Pakistan. Sunil Gavaskar became a cult in Pakistan. Young batsmen were told to copy Gavaskar Saab’s technique. Then Amitabh Bachchan’s ‘Angry Young Man’ movies used to get sold out. Then came Kapil Dev, Sachin Tendulkar, Shah Rukh Khan, MS Dhoni. When Dhoni came here his long locks became a trend. “But Virat’s popularity in Pakistan is on par with Dilip Saab, Mr Bachchan and Shah Rukh. Like in India, you guys loved our bowlers – Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and Shoaib Akhtar became household names. Here in Pakistan, we adored Gavaskar Saab, Tendulkar, then Dhoni and now Kohli – they are all icons. Yuvraj Singh and Virender Sehwag too have a good fan following in Pakistan,” Latif added. Virat led a fitness revolution Although Sourav Ganguly and MS Dhoni are considered two great Indian captains who changed their cricket for good, Azhar Ali said how Virat led the fitness revolution among the Asian fraternity is fantastic. “First and foremost, he has changed Indian cricket. You can debate that Sourav Ganguly and MS Dhoni have also played a role. But when it comes to fitness, there is no one like Virat Kohli. He has led by example. He is a role model to all the youths. “Now, in our part of the world, we have someone who is the most fit athlete. Earlier, we used to give examples of athletes from the West. Now Virat has set that bar. The Pakistani youths are fascinated by the sacrifices he has made. You see his interviews where he is talking about how he quit having his favourite food (Chole Bhature) for cricket,” Azhar continued.

Virat Kohli’s fan following in Pakistan is on par with Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan, says Rashid Latif

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has hyped the Indian Team ahead of the showdown clash at the Nassau County Cricket Stadium in New York on Sunday (June 9), saying they hold the advantage over the Men in Green. While mentioning everyone’s attention would be on this high-octane clash, Latif pointed out that Pakistan captain Babar Azam will be under utmost pressure, more so for going up against India than performing well in the ongoing 2024 T20 World Cup.

Latif said Babar is far from learning the art of absorbing pressure in such games, suggesting he must take a few tips from Indian veterans like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. He added Babar is ahead of his contemporaries as a batter but still has a long way to go as a leader.

"...the focus is on the game on June 9 against India. Babar (Pakistan captain) will be under a lot of pressure because of the game against India rather than performing in the World Cup," Latif said in a chat with PTI.&nbsp;

"But he has to learn to carry pressure; he should learn that from Virat and Rohit. They know how to carry the game. As a batter, Babar is one of the best, but as a captain and leader, there's a lot that he needs to learn," the former Pakistan keeper-batter further said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/icc-not-in-favour-of-shifting-matches-from-nassau-county-stadium-despite-pitch-concerns-729417">ICC not in favour of shifting matches from Nassau County Stadium despite pitch concerns</a>

India won their first game of the&nbsp;tournament against Ireland by eight wickets without their x-factor Kuldeep Yadav, probably saving him for the marquee clash against Pakistan. Latif thinks along the same lines,&nbsp;considering the pitches on offer in the USA, mainly in New York, would assist&nbsp;Kuldeep's style of bowling.

"Kuldeep Yadav is that one player who, if he remains fit for India throughout the World Cup, can cause trouble for batters. He is India's key bowler and also a key to success. Given the current form and stats, definitely, India have an advantage ahead of June 9," he said.

<h2>Pakistan Team doesn’t look prepared</h2>

Unlike how up and ready they looked in the previous two editions (in 2021 and 2022), Pakistan is not prepared enough for this edition, and Latif feels the reason behind that is the damage they suffered with the results at last year’s 50-over World Cup.

“The Pakistan team plays well in the ICC tournaments, but the team doesn't look as prepared as they were in 2021 and 2022. The damage happened after the last ODI World Cup with changes in captaincy, the selection committee and players,” Latif explained.&nbsp;

“The team doesn't know who their openers will be, and what they have tried has failed miserably,” Latif added.

(With inputs from PTI)

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has hyped the Indian Team ahead of the showdown clash at the Nassau County Cricket Stadium in New York on Sunday (June 9), saying they hold the advantage over the Men in Green.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has hyped the Indian Team ahead of the showdown clash at the Nassau County Cricket Stadium in New York on Sunday (June 9), saying they hold the advantage over the Men in Green. While mentioning everyone’s attention would be on this high-octane clash, Latif pointed out that Pakistan captain Babar Azam will be under utmost pressure, more so for going up against India than performing well in the ongoing 2024 T20 World Cup. Latif said Babar is far from learning the art of absorbing pressure in such games, suggesting he must take a few tips from Indian veterans like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. He added Babar is ahead of his contemporaries as a batter but still has a long way to go as a leader. "...the focus is on the game on June 9 against India. Babar (Pakistan captain) will be under a lot of pressure because of the game against India rather than performing in the World Cup," Latif said in a chat with PTI. "But he has to learn to carry pressure; he should learn that from Virat and Rohit. They know how to carry the game. As a batter, Babar is one of the best, but as a captain and leader, there's a lot that he needs to learn," the former Pakistan keeper-batter further said. ALSO READ: ICC not in favour of shifting matches from Nassau County Stadium despite pitch concerns India won their first game of the tournament against Ireland by eight wickets without their x-factor Kuldeep Yadav, probably saving him for the marquee clash against Pakistan. Latif thinks along the same lines, considering the pitches on offer in the USA, mainly in New York, would assist Kuldeep's style of bowling. "Kuldeep Yadav is that one player who, if he remains fit for India throughout the World Cup, can cause trouble for batters. He is India's key bowler and also a key to success. Given the current form and stats, definitely, India have an advantage ahead of June 9," he said. Pakistan Team doesn’t look prepared Unlike how up and ready they looked in the previous two editions (in 2021 and 2022), Pakistan is not prepared enough for this edition, and Latif feels the reason behind that is the damage they suffered with the results at last year’s 50-over World Cup. “The Pakistan team plays well in the ICC tournaments, but the team doesn't look as prepared as they were in 2021 and 2022. The damage happened after the last ODI World Cup with changes in captaincy, the selection committee and players,” Latif explained. “The team doesn't know who their openers will be, and what they have tried has failed miserably,” Latif added. (With inputs from PTI)

T20 WC: Pakistan legend hypes India ahead of showdown clash in New York; rings warning bells for Babar Azam

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has slammed the toxic fans for targetting Azam Khan for his bulky physique and lack of fitness. The wicketkeeper-batter was brutally trolled after he got out to a lethal bouncer from Mark Wood and later dropped a sitter to give reprieve to Will Jacks during the match against England.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has slammed the toxic fans for targetting Azam Khan for his bulky physique and lack of fitness. The wicketkeeper-batter was brutally trolled after he got out to a lethal bouncer from Mark Wood and later dropped a sitter to give reprieve to Will Jacks during the match against England. "He is under immense pressure. He is being body shamed, is being trolled. Azam is an exceptional batsman in T20s," Latif was quoted as saying by newspaper The Indian Express. "He is a clean hitter, plays spinners well, has worked on his game against the pacers. I feel bad for the kid, he is only 25. He doesn’t deserve to be trolled like this," he added. Ahead of Pakistan's first match of the World Cup, a video went viral on social media, showing Babar having a go at Azam during one of the training sessions. A section of the internet believed that Babar called Azam a 'Gainda' (slang for overweight people in subcontinent), while another section thought that it was some other innocuous Punjabi slang. Also read | T20 World Cup 2024: Pakistan dealt huge blow before India contest as Imad Wasim is ruled out of USA clash 'Written all these things' Azam, who is the son of former Pakistan wicketkeeper Moin Khan, has previously revealed that abuse regarding his physique and connections have been a constant in his life. “Parchi, aloo, mota, sifarshi, nepotism, gainda, baby elephant.. I have written all these things on a poster in my room, and every day before going to the training I look at them and it gives me the extra confidence to do well,” Azam had revealed on Tabish Hashmi’s show ‘Hasna Mana hai’. Azam has been donning the wicketkeeping gloves despite captain Babar Azam having Mohammad Rizwan in the squad. In the last two World Cup editions, Rizwan has been the first pick for the men-in-green, however, the team management have preferred Azam for this year's marquee tournament. Pakistan will square off against hosts USA in their opening match of the tournament in their pursuit of the first T20 World Cup title in 15 years. They were runners-up in the 2022 edition of the T20 World Cup and the losing semifinalists in the 2021 edition in the UAE and Oman. Pakistan's T20 World Cup squad: Babar Azam (c), Saim Ayub, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Fakhar Zaman, Azam Khan (wk), Usman Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Amir, Abbas Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed (With inputs from agencies)

'He's being bodyshamed': Former Pakistan captain comes in defence of Azam Khan

Ahead of their marquee encounter versus India at the 2024 T20 World Cup, the Pakistan cricket team has landed itself in trouble. Before their T20 WC opener, where they face USA on June 6 in Dallas, Babar Azam &amp; Co. is said to have hosted a dinner party for fans in the USA. Apparently, the fans were invited for a 'meet and greet' session with the Pakistani players. However, the invite wasn't&nbsp;free and fans were said to have been charged&nbsp;$25 (INR 2,000 approx).

Thus, this has not been well received by the Pakistan cricket fraternity. Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-captain Rashid Latif was left fuming and he took to social media to make the shocking claims. He further highlighted that the programme was organised by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and players.

On social media platform X, formerly Twitter, Latif posted a video and claimed that the fans were charged for the 'meet and greet' session. "There are official dinners, but this is a private dinner. Who can do this? It's terrible. That means you met our players in 25 dollars. God forbid, had there been a mess, people would have said boys are earning money," Latif said in the video.&nbsp;

Here is the video:

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Let’s Save The Star &amp; Be Stars 
Unofficial Private Dinner During WC24<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/BXEgPyA2p2">pic.twitter.com/BXEgPyA2p2</a>
— Rashid Latif | 🇵🇰 (@iRashidLatif68) <a href="https://twitter.com/iRashidLatif68/status/1798114528267321522?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-2024-pakistan-dealt-huge-blow-before-india-contest-as-imad-wasim-gets-ruled-out-of-usa-clash-728899">T20 World Cup 2024: Pakistan dealt huge blow before India contest as Imad Wasim gets ruled out of USA clash</a>

In addition, television presenter and cricket correspondent Nauman Niaz called out the "sad state of affairs".

Further, Latif also suggested that while he understood the idea of organising charity dinners, however, hosting a private dinner&nbsp;with a fee&nbsp;is astonishing.

In this regard, Latif commented, "People tell me that whoever calls the Pakistan players, they just ask, 'how much money will you give?' This has become common. Things were different at our time. We had 2–3 dinners, but they were official. But this is highlighted because it's the World Cup. So the players should be careful. The amount of 25 dollars shouldn't be blatantly used like this."

"You attend 2–3 dinners, but without the commercial angle. You can go for charity dinners and fundraisers, but this is neither fundraising nor a charity dinner. This is a private function with the name of Pakistan and Pakistan cricket associated with it. Don't make this mistake," he added.

Babar-led Pakistan are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals India, Canada, USA and Ireland in the ongoing T20 WC, in West Indies and the USA. While they open their campaign versus USA, their clash against India (in New York on June 9) is keenly awaited.

Ahead of their marquee encounter versus India at the 2024 T20 World Cup, the Pakistan cricket team has landed itself in trouble. Before their T20 WC opener, where they face USA on June 6 in Dallas, Babar Azam & Co.

Ahead of their marquee encounter versus India at the 2024 T20 World Cup, the Pakistan cricket team has landed itself in trouble. Before their T20 WC opener, where they face USA on June 6 in Dallas, Babar Azam & Co. is said to have hosted a dinner party for fans in the USA. Apparently, the fans were invited for a 'meet and greet' session with the Pakistani players. However, the invite wasn't free and fans were said to have been charged $25 (INR 2,000 approx). Thus, this has not been well received by the Pakistan cricket fraternity. Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-captain Rashid Latif was left fuming and he took to social media to make the shocking claims. He further highlighted that the programme was organised by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and players. On social media platform X, formerly Twitter, Latif posted a video and claimed that the fans were charged for the 'meet and greet' session. "There are official dinners, but this is a private dinner. Who can do this? It's terrible. That means you met our players in 25 dollars. God forbid, had there been a mess, people would have said boys are earning money," Latif said in the video. Here is the video: Let’s Save The Star & Be Stars Unofficial Private Dinner During WC24#T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/BXEgPyA2p2 — Rashid Latif | 🇵🇰 (@iRashidLatif68) June 4, 2024 × Also read: T20 World Cup 2024: Pakistan dealt huge blow before India contest as Imad Wasim gets ruled out of USA clash In addition, television presenter and cricket correspondent Nauman Niaz called out the "sad state of affairs". Further, Latif also suggested that while he understood the idea of organising charity dinners, however, hosting a private dinner with a fee is astonishing. In this regard, Latif commented, "People tell me that whoever calls the Pakistan players, they just ask, 'how much money will you give?' This has become common. Things were different at our time. We had 2–3 dinners, but they were official. But this is highlighted because it's the World Cup. So the players should be careful. The amount of 25 dollars shouldn't be blatantly used like this." "You attend 2–3 dinners, but without the commercial angle. You can go for charity dinners and fundraisers, but this is neither fundraising nor a charity dinner. This is a private function with the name of Pakistan and Pakistan cricket associated with it. Don't make this mistake," he added. Babar-led Pakistan are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals India, Canada, USA and Ireland in the ongoing T20 WC, in West Indies and the USA. While they open their campaign versus USA, their clash against India (in New York on June 9) is keenly awaited.

T20 WC: Before India clash, Pakistan players SLAMMED for charging fans for a private dinner

Rohit Sharma-led Team India have been in top form in the home ODI World Cup. After three games, India have equal number of wins and will lock horns with Bangladesh on Thursday (Oct 19) in Pune. On Saturday (Oct 14), India met Pakistan at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad and demolished their arch-rivals by seven wickets, and 117 balls to spare.

With this win, India are atop in the points table and marching ahead with high chances of entering the semi-finals in the top-two. Rashid Latif, former Pakistan captain, lauded India's ace spinner Kuldeep Yadav after the Men in Blue's easy win over his national side and predicted the 29-year-old Kuldeep to end as the highest wicket-taker of the ongoing edition.

Latif feels Babar Azam-led Pakistani batters weren't aggressive against Kuldeep and only tried to play out his overs in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;Writing in his column for The Indian Express, he said, "Against Kuldeep, we looked timid, we were trying to just play out his ten overs. Not a single Pakistan batsman was able to pick Kuldeep (Yadav), and I think if he is not rested in a few matches, Kuldeep will end up being the leading wicket-taker of the tournament."

At the moment, Kuldeep has five wickets (third-most by an Indian) and occupies the sixth spot in the leading wicket-taker list. Jasprit Bumrah leads the overall chart with eight wickets, who was also the Player-of-the-Match versus Pakistan for his 2 for 19, whereas Ravindra Jadeja also features in the top five (fifth) with equal number of scalps as Kuldeep.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/just-one-in-8-attempts-sehwag-gives-epic-reply-to-vaughans-england-in-world-cup-semis-remark-647543">'Just one in 8 attempts': Sehwag gives EPIC reply to Vaughan's 'England in World Cup semis' remark</a>

Latif, however, feels India should play R Ashwin in every game. Ashwin, who was selected in the World Cup squad at the last minute after Axar Patel's injury, played versus Australia but has warmed the bench in the next two games. "I was surprised that India didn’t pick Ashwin. I feel he should play all the matches for India. If Ashwin had played I don’t think we could have even got 190 on the board,” Latif added.

India will look to maintain their winning run when they lock horns with the Bangla Tigers on Thursday.&nbsp;

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Rohit Sharma-led Team India have been in top form in the home ODI World Cup. After three games, India have equal number of wins and will lock horns with Bangladesh on Thursday (Oct 19) in Pune.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India have been in top form in the home ODI World Cup. After three games, India have equal number of wins and will lock horns with Bangladesh on Thursday (Oct 19) in Pune. On Saturday (Oct 14), India met Pakistan at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad and demolished their arch-rivals by seven wickets, and 117 balls to spare. With this win, India are atop in the points table and marching ahead with high chances of entering the semi-finals in the top-two. Rashid Latif, former Pakistan captain, lauded India's ace spinner Kuldeep Yadav after the Men in Blue's easy win over his national side and predicted the 29-year-old Kuldeep to end as the highest wicket-taker of the ongoing edition. Latif feels Babar Azam-led Pakistani batters weren't aggressive against Kuldeep and only tried to play out his overs in Ahmedabad. Writing in his column for The Indian Express, he said, "Against Kuldeep, we looked timid, we were trying to just play out his ten overs. Not a single Pakistan batsman was able to pick Kuldeep (Yadav), and I think if he is not rested in a few matches, Kuldeep will end up being the leading wicket-taker of the tournament." At the moment, Kuldeep has five wickets (third-most by an Indian) and occupies the sixth spot in the leading wicket-taker list. Jasprit Bumrah leads the overall chart with eight wickets, who was also the Player-of-the-Match versus Pakistan for his 2 for 19, whereas Ravindra Jadeja also features in the top five (fifth) with equal number of scalps as Kuldeep. Also read: 'Just one in 8 attempts': Sehwag gives EPIC reply to Vaughan's 'England in World Cup semis' remark Latif, however, feels India should play R Ashwin in every game. Ashwin, who was selected in the World Cup squad at the last minute after Axar Patel's injury, played versus Australia but has warmed the bench in the next two games. "I was surprised that India didn’t pick Ashwin. I feel he should play all the matches for India. If Ashwin had played I don’t think we could have even got 190 on the board,” Latif added. India will look to maintain their winning run when they lock horns with the Bangla Tigers on Thursday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kuldeep Yadav will end as ODI World Cup 2023's highest wicket-taker, predicts former Pakistan captain

Former Pakistan captain and veteran keeper-batter Rashid Latif bashed the current situation of Pakistan cricket and its board in the country. Following their loss to India for the record eighth time in World Cup history in Ahmedabad by seven wickets, Latif pointed fingers towards political vendetta and aggressive changes in the top brass as reasons behind the team’s yet another failure on the big stage.

“The continuous political interference is ruining Pakistan cricket,” Rashid Latif said, as quoted in The Indian Express.&nbsp;

“In the past twelve months, we have seen three different persons heading the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). We have seen Ramiz Raja, then Najam Sethi, and now Zaka Ashraf is at the helm. And not to forget, in the same timeline, we have had five selectors as well. Mohammad Wasim, Micky Arthur, Shahid Afridi, Haroon Rasheed, and now Inzamam-ul-Haq,” Latif added while talking about the reason behind the fall of Pakistan Cricket.&nbsp;

From being 155 for two at one stage to getting all out on 191 on a batting paradise at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Pakistan lost momentum and thus the match later on. For India, skipper Rohit Sharma led from the front, hitting a magnificent 86, including six sixes, helping India cross the line with relative ease.

Although Pakistan Captain Babar Azam completed his fifty and Muhammad Rizwan contributed with 49 in the middle overs, none of the batters could put pressure back on the Indian bowlers.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-we-got-to-move-on-quickly-but-players-must-enjoy-the-win-first-trott-on-afgs-famous-win-over-england-647374">CWC: We got to move on quickly but players must enjoy the win first: Trott on AFG’s famous win over England</a>

“The selectors should also be blamed because there was no vision. Saud Shakeel, Abdullah Shafique and Hasan Ali were not in contention a year ago, and suddenly, they are in the ODI World Cup.

“Saud and Abdullah had never played a high-intensity game, and you cannot blame them. Fakhar Zaman was our main player for the past three years and all of a sudden, he was dropped. I agree that he was not in good form, but in my opinion, he should have batted at No 4 to face Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav,” Latif bashed the selection criteria.

<h2>Shaheen looked fatigued; Pakistan lacked mental toughness</h2>

The bowlers looked fatigued, starting with Shaheen, who is said to be carrying an injury. Besides him, Haris Rauf failed to terrorize batters with his steamy pace the way he does in the shortest format. And as per Rashid, with Indians being so good against the spin, they could have hit Shadab Khan with their eyes closed.

“I don’t know if Shaheen Afridi is injured, but he looked fatigued. Haris Rauf will have to learn how to hit the good lengths consistently. In the T20Is, the four-over spell can make you a superstar by firing all the cylinders in 24 balls. But in the ODIs and Test cricket, you need that mental toughness that was lacking in Ahmedabad,” the Pakistan veteran added.

“Shadab Khan’s spells against the minor teams are exceptional but when it comes to the top five side, he struggles. Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jos Buttler, Glenn Maxwell, and David Miller face the likes of Kuldeep Yadav, Rashid Khan and Tabraiz Shamsi in the nets; they will pick Shadab with their eyes shut,” Rashid slammed Pakistan team’s vice-captain.&nbsp;

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Former Pakistan captain and veteran keeper-batter Rashid Latif bashed the current situation of Pakistan cricket and its board in the country. Following their loss to India for the record eighth time in World Cup history in Ahmedabad by seven wickets, Latif pointed fingers towards political vendetta and aggressive changes in the top brass as reasons behind the team’s yet another failure on the big stage.

Former Pakistan captain and veteran keeper-batter Rashid Latif bashed the current situation of Pakistan cricket and its board in the country. Following their loss to India for the record eighth time in World Cup history in Ahmedabad by seven wickets, Latif pointed fingers towards political vendetta and aggressive changes in the top brass as reasons behind the team’s yet another failure on the big stage. “The continuous political interference is ruining Pakistan cricket,” Rashid Latif said, as quoted in The Indian Express. “In the past twelve months, we have seen three different persons heading the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). We have seen Ramiz Raja, then Najam Sethi, and now Zaka Ashraf is at the helm. And not to forget, in the same timeline, we have had five selectors as well. Mohammad Wasim, Micky Arthur, Shahid Afridi, Haroon Rasheed, and now Inzamam-ul-Haq,” Latif added while talking about the reason behind the fall of Pakistan Cricket. From being 155 for two at one stage to getting all out on 191 on a batting paradise at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Pakistan lost momentum and thus the match later on. For India, skipper Rohit Sharma led from the front, hitting a magnificent 86, including six sixes, helping India cross the line with relative ease. Although Pakistan Captain Babar Azam completed his fifty and Muhammad Rizwan contributed with 49 in the middle overs, none of the batters could put pressure back on the Indian bowlers. ALSO READ: CWC: We got to move on quickly but players must enjoy the win first: Trott on AFG’s famous win over England “The selectors should also be blamed because there was no vision. Saud Shakeel, Abdullah Shafique and Hasan Ali were not in contention a year ago, and suddenly, they are in the ODI World Cup. “Saud and Abdullah had never played a high-intensity game, and you cannot blame them. Fakhar Zaman was our main player for the past three years and all of a sudden, he was dropped. I agree that he was not in good form, but in my opinion, he should have batted at No 4 to face Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav,” Latif bashed the selection criteria. Shaheen looked fatigued; Pakistan lacked mental toughness The bowlers looked fatigued, starting with Shaheen, who is said to be carrying an injury. Besides him, Haris Rauf failed to terrorize batters with his steamy pace the way he does in the shortest format. And as per Rashid, with Indians being so good against the spin, they could have hit Shadab Khan with their eyes closed. “I don’t know if Shaheen Afridi is injured, but he looked fatigued. Haris Rauf will have to learn how to hit the good lengths consistently. In the T20Is, the four-over spell can make you a superstar by firing all the cylinders in 24 balls. But in the ODIs and Test cricket, you need that mental toughness that was lacking in Ahmedabad,” the Pakistan veteran added. “Shadab Khan’s spells against the minor teams are exceptional but when it comes to the top five side, he struggles. Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jos Buttler, Glenn Maxwell, and David Miller face the likes of Kuldeep Yadav, Rashid Khan and Tabraiz Shamsi in the nets; they will pick Shadab with their eyes shut,” Rashid slammed Pakistan team’s vice-captain. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rashid Latif tears into Pakistan cricket setup, blames political vendetta, aggressive changes for poor show

Former Pakistan skipper Rashid Latif feels Team India would have been 100 per cent prepared for the 2023 ODI World Cup, to be held in India in October-November, had Virat Kohli remained the captain. Kohli was sacked as the ODI captain in late 2021, just a few months after he stepped down as the T20I skipper ahead of the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE.

At that time, the BCCI made it clear that it does not want two captains in&nbsp;different white-ball formats. Hence, Rohit took over as the white-ball skipper and soon became the full-time captain in early 2022, post Kohli's resignation as the Test skipper.

Since then, India have not had great success across formats. They fell flat in the Asia Cup, held in the T20I format, in 2022 and also bowed out of the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup last year, held in Australia.

Towards the end of the year, India lost the ODIs to hosts Bangladesh, conceded a home 50-over series to Australia early this year, came second in the WTC final and also lost the five T20I series to West Indies, held in West Indies and USA.

Injuries have plagued India's run as they still await the fitness reports of KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer ahead of the Asia Cup, which kicks off later this month.

Thus, the Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team had lots on their plate ahead of the ODI World Cup at home, in October-November. 
 
In this regard, Latif spoke at length about India's current struggles and believes things would have been different, had Kohli remained the captain.&nbsp;

<h2>'India would have been 100% prepared for CWC '23 had Kohli remained captain'</h2>

“If they had allowed Virat Kohli to continue as captain, India would have been 100 per cent prepared for the World Cup by this time,” Latif said on his official YouTube channel. 
 
"Indian team management has experimented with several players and if I talk about their batting, the middle and lower order — from numbers 4 to 7 — they just have not allowed any new player to settle down. There have been too many changes," he further asserted.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistans-iftikhar-ahmed-reacts-to-fake-remark-on-team-india-lashes-out-at-fan-for-spreading-hate-626306">Pakistan's Iftikhar Ahmed reacts to fake remark on Team India, lashes out at fan for 'spreading hate'</a>

The former Pakistani wicketkeeper-batter added that dependence on injured seniors such as Rahul and Iyer might be risky for Team India, heading into the Asia Cup and CWC '23. Latif added, "I would say it is risky because KL and Iyer are returning from injuries."&nbsp;

At present, Jasprit Bumrah is leading a second-stringed Indian team in Ireland for three T20Is in Dublin, starting on Friday (August 18). However, the main focus is already on the Asia Cup, which commences on August 30. Soon after the continental tournament, the ODI World Cup will kick off in India&nbsp;on October 05.&nbsp;

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Former Pakistan skipper Rashid Latif feels Team India would have been 100 per cent prepared for the 2023 ODI World Cup, to be held in India in October-November, had Virat Kohli remained the captain.

Former Pakistan skipper Rashid Latif feels Team India would have been 100 per cent prepared for the 2023 ODI World Cup, to be held in India in October-November, had Virat Kohli remained the captain. Kohli was sacked as the ODI captain in late 2021, just a few months after he stepped down as the T20I skipper ahead of the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE. At that time, the BCCI made it clear that it does not want two captains in different white-ball formats. Hence, Rohit took over as the white-ball skipper and soon became the full-time captain in early 2022, post Kohli's resignation as the Test skipper. Since then, India have not had great success across formats. They fell flat in the Asia Cup, held in the T20I format, in 2022 and also bowed out of the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup last year, held in Australia. Towards the end of the year, India lost the ODIs to hosts Bangladesh, conceded a home 50-over series to Australia early this year, came second in the WTC final and also lost the five T20I series to West Indies, held in West Indies and USA. Injuries have plagued India's run as they still await the fitness reports of KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer ahead of the Asia Cup, which kicks off later this month. Thus, the Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team had lots on their plate ahead of the ODI World Cup at home, in October-November. In this regard, Latif spoke at length about India's current struggles and believes things would have been different, had Kohli remained the captain. 'India would have been 100% prepared for CWC '23 had Kohli remained captain' “If they had allowed Virat Kohli to continue as captain, India would have been 100 per cent prepared for the World Cup by this time,” Latif said on his official YouTube channel. "Indian team management has experimented with several players and if I talk about their batting, the middle and lower order — from numbers 4 to 7 — they just have not allowed any new player to settle down. There have been too many changes," he further asserted. Also read: Pakistan's Iftikhar Ahmed reacts to fake remark on Team India, lashes out at fan for 'spreading hate' The former Pakistani wicketkeeper-batter added that dependence on injured seniors such as Rahul and Iyer might be risky for Team India, heading into the Asia Cup and CWC '23. Latif added, "I would say it is risky because KL and Iyer are returning from injuries." At present, Jasprit Bumrah is leading a second-stringed Indian team in Ireland for three T20Is in Dublin, starting on Friday (August 18). However, the main focus is already on the Asia Cup, which commences on August 30. Soon after the continental tournament, the ODI World Cup will kick off in India on October 05. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India would've been 100 per cent prepared for CWC '23 had Kohli remained captain, feels ex-Pak captain

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif feels Team India have not done well in recent ICC events due to 'internal issues'. It is to be noted that India have not won an ICC event since their historic triumph in the 2013 Champions Trophy. Their last win in a multi-nation event came during the 2018 Asia Cup, in the UAE. At present, Rohit Sharma-led India are gearing up for the Asia Cup, in Sri Lanka and Pakistan, which will be followed by the home ODI World Cup, in October-November.

Latif&nbsp;stated that&nbsp;Team India have faltered due to&nbsp;"internal issues",&nbsp;seemingly referring to former captain Virat Kohli's sacking,&nbsp;India's top-order crisis and the perennial No. 4 issue.

<h2>'India couldn't perform due to internal issues'</h2>

On his YouTube channel, the former Pakistan keeper-batter and captain pointed out, "Virat Kohli had a direction and he wanted to win, but he was sacked. The team couldn't perform due to internal issues. They couldn't perform in ICC tournaments because, maybe, the captain didn't get the desired players. Or maybe he got, but they weren't used. Now, there are two big events -- Asia Cup in Sri Lanka and the World Cup at home. Their team is still pretty good, they will get a no.4."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-gill-jaiswal-can-become-indias-next-tendulkar-ganguly-uthappas-big-claim-after-4th-t20i-624967">Ind vs WI: 'Gill-Jaiswal can become India's next Tendulkar- Ganguly' - Uthappa's BIG claim after 4th T20I</a>

Highlighting the Men in Blue's problems, Latif mentioned, "The problem begins when the top-3 gets dismissed quickly. If the top-3 play&nbsp;out the 25-30 overs, they will win easily. Their issue is the top-3 isn't performing how it used to. They could've brought back Shikhar Dhawan, you had made him captain less than a year ago during a tour. You had players, you threw them here and there.”

At present, Hardik Pandya-led India is involved in the five T20Is versus West Indies, with the&nbsp;series&nbsp;decider on Sunday (August 13) in Florida. Meanwhile, the national side is simultaneously&nbsp;focused on preparing for the Asia Cup 2023, starting on August 30, which is a dress rehearsal for the ODI World Cup at home.

India have reached four finals and as many semi-finals in all ICC events since 2013, when they last clinched a mega title. Thus, they will be hungry to end the year with a historic ODI WC triumph on home soil and silence all their critics.

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Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif feels Team India have not done well in recent ICC events due to 'internal issues'. It is to be noted that India have not won an ICC event since their historic triumph in the 2013 Champions Trophy.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif feels Team India have not done well in recent ICC events due to 'internal issues'. It is to be noted that India have not won an ICC event since their historic triumph in the 2013 Champions Trophy. Their last win in a multi-nation event came during the 2018 Asia Cup, in the UAE. At present, Rohit Sharma-led India are gearing up for the Asia Cup, in Sri Lanka and Pakistan, which will be followed by the home ODI World Cup, in October-November. Latif stated that Team India have faltered due to "internal issues", seemingly referring to former captain Virat Kohli's sacking, India's top-order crisis and the perennial No. 4 issue. 'India couldn't perform due to internal issues' On his YouTube channel, the former Pakistan keeper-batter and captain pointed out, "Virat Kohli had a direction and he wanted to win, but he was sacked. The team couldn't perform due to internal issues. They couldn't perform in ICC tournaments because, maybe, the captain didn't get the desired players. Or maybe he got, but they weren't used. Now, there are two big events -- Asia Cup in Sri Lanka and the World Cup at home. Their team is still pretty good, they will get a no.4." Also read: Ind vs WI: 'Gill-Jaiswal can become India's next Tendulkar- Ganguly' - Uthappa's BIG claim after 4th T20I Highlighting the Men in Blue's problems, Latif mentioned, "The problem begins when the top-3 gets dismissed quickly. If the top-3 play out the 25-30 overs, they will win easily. Their issue is the top-3 isn't performing how it used to. They could've brought back Shikhar Dhawan, you had made him captain less than a year ago during a tour. You had players, you threw them here and there.” At present, Hardik Pandya-led India is involved in the five T20Is versus West Indies, with the series decider on Sunday (August 13) in Florida. Meanwhile, the national side is simultaneously focused on preparing for the Asia Cup 2023, starting on August 30, which is a dress rehearsal for the ODI World Cup at home. India have reached four finals and as many semi-finals in all ICC events since 2013, when they last clinched a mega title. Thus, they will be hungry to end the year with a historic ODI WC triumph on home soil and silence all their critics. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India couldn't perform in ICC tournaments due to internal issues, claims former Pakistan captain

Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) won their third game in a row when they defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 14 runs in match 25 of the IPL 2023 edition on Tuesday (April 18). Asked to bat first, MI rode on Cameron Green's 40-ball 64 and Tilak Verma's 37 to post a challenging 192 for 5. In reply, SRH were bundled out for 178 in 19.5 overs with Green, Cameron Bancroft and Riley Meredith taking two wickets each. Arjun Tendulkar also ended with a scalp, picking the last wicket, to take his maiden IPL scalp.&nbsp;

SRH needed 20 off the last six deliveries when captain Rohit threw the ball to Arjun. The inexperienced campaigner executed the yorkers and bowled well to take his side to a close win as former cricketers and experts of the game shared their opinions on Sachin Tendulkar's son. Joining the bandwagon, former Pakistan captain and keeper-batter Rashid Latif claimed that Arjun is still a work-in-progress and made a big statement.

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Latif said on his Youtube channel, "He's (Arjun) in his initial stage. He has to do a lot of hard work. His alignment isn't good, he won't be able to generate pace."

He further opined, "If a good biomechanical consultant guides him, maybe he can add some pace to his bowling. It's quite a touchy subject, coaching and changing a player. Sachin could've done that himself but he relied on domestic cricket for that." Latif added, "Your base has to be strong. When he lands, he goes out instead of coming in. His balance isn't good, and that's impacting his pace. But again, it's still in the initial stage. He can go till 135kmph, he's a good batter. He can be a good player in 2-3 years."

MI occupy the sixth position in the points table after five encounters, winning three and losing two. They will host Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Saturday evening (April 22) at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) won their third game in a row when they defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 14 runs in match 25 of the IPL 2023 edition on Tuesday (April 18).

Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) won their third game in a row when they defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 14 runs in match 25 of the IPL 2023 edition on Tuesday (April 18). Asked to bat first, MI rode on Cameron Green's 40-ball 64 and Tilak Verma's 37 to post a challenging 192 for 5. In reply, SRH were bundled out for 178 in 19.5 overs with Green, Cameron Bancroft and Riley Meredith taking two wickets each. Arjun Tendulkar also ended with a scalp, picking the last wicket, to take his maiden IPL scalp. SRH needed 20 off the last six deliveries when captain Rohit threw the ball to Arjun. The inexperienced campaigner executed the yorkers and bowled well to take his side to a close win as former cricketers and experts of the game shared their opinions on Sachin Tendulkar's son. Joining the bandwagon, former Pakistan captain and keeper-batter Rashid Latif claimed that Arjun is still a work-in-progress and made a big statement. Also Read: IPL 2023: Delhi Capitals vs Kolkata Knight Riders - Match preview and result prediction Latif said on his Youtube channel, "He's (Arjun) in his initial stage. He has to do a lot of hard work. His alignment isn't good, he won't be able to generate pace." He further opined, "If a good biomechanical consultant guides him, maybe he can add some pace to his bowling. It's quite a touchy subject, coaching and changing a player. Sachin could've done that himself but he relied on domestic cricket for that." Latif added, "Your base has to be strong. When he lands, he goes out instead of coming in. His balance isn't good, and that's impacting his pace. But again, it's still in the initial stage. He can go till 135kmph, he's a good batter. He can be a good player in 2-3 years." MI occupy the sixth position in the points table after five encounters, winning three and losing two. They will host Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Saturday evening (April 22) at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

IPL 2023: Arjun Tendulkar's alignment isn't good, won't be able to generate pace, claims former Pak captain

MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have lit up the atmosphere in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition. After losing an intensly-fought season-opener to defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT), on March 31, the four-time champions Yellow Army locked horns with the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai -- their first game at the Chepauk after 1,426 days (following IPL 2019).

The crowd at the Chepauk gave a rousing reception to the Dhoni-led CSK brigade in their memorable homecoming after 2019. Asked to bat first, Chennai rode on Ruturaj Gaikwad's 57, Devon Conway's 47, Shivam Dube's 16-ball 27, Moeen Ali's 13-ball 19, Ambati Rayudu's 14-ball 27* and Dhoni's 3-ball 12 to post 217 for 7. While CSK bowlers were erratic, they managed to defend the total as Lucknow were restricted for 205 for 7. Thus, it was a memorable return to Chepauk for CSK.&nbsp;

Dhoni gave plenty to cheer for the fans as well. The crowd waited patiently for him to come out to bat. There was a sigh of relief for many when Ravindra Jadeja got out in the final over with five balls to spare. Dhoni played only three deliveries but blasted two back-to-back sixes and returned with 12 (3). Even in the opening game, CSK skipper made 14* off seven balls, striking at 200.&nbsp;

After the clash, former Pakistan captain and keeper-batter Rashid Latif hailed Dhoni. Latif was asked to share his views on the '41-year-old youngster' by Nauman Niaz. To this, the former cricketer said on the Youtube channel Caught Behind, "He has scored 5000 runs in IPL alone. Dhoni has always had a golden template. His history has been written with gold - for India, for world cricket. You and I can say whatever we like but it won't make a difference. He is easily the greatest ever Indian captain, and also a wicketkeeper batter. There is no doubt there."

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"Look at the way he batted. He faced just 2-3 balls and showed what he has always been capable of. He is the most famous player. We have seen Sachin Tendulkar, Sunil Gavaskar, even Virat Kohli. But Dhoni, and the way he conducts himself on the field and the following that he has, there is a different vibe and intensity to it altogether. Outstanding," added Latif.

CSK are at the sixth position in the points table with one win and a loss. They will next face arch-rivals Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on April 08 (Saturday).

MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have lit up the atmosphere in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition. After losing an intensly-fought season-opener to defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT), on March 31, the four-time champions Yellow Army locked horns with the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai -- their first game at the Chepauk after 1,426 days (following IPL 2019).

MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have lit up the atmosphere in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition. After losing an intensly-fought season-opener to defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT), on March 31, the four-time champions Yellow Army locked horns with the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai -- their first game at the Chepauk after 1,426 days (following IPL 2019). The crowd at the Chepauk gave a rousing reception to the Dhoni-led CSK brigade in their memorable homecoming after 2019. Asked to bat first, Chennai rode on Ruturaj Gaikwad's 57, Devon Conway's 47, Shivam Dube's 16-ball 27, Moeen Ali's 13-ball 19, Ambati Rayudu's 14-ball 27* and Dhoni's 3-ball 12 to post 217 for 7. While CSK bowlers were erratic, they managed to defend the total as Lucknow were restricted for 205 for 7. Thus, it was a memorable return to Chepauk for CSK. Dhoni gave plenty to cheer for the fans as well. The crowd waited patiently for him to come out to bat. There was a sigh of relief for many when Ravindra Jadeja got out in the final over with five balls to spare. Dhoni played only three deliveries but blasted two back-to-back sixes and returned with 12 (3). Even in the opening game, CSK skipper made 14* off seven balls, striking at 200. After the clash, former Pakistan captain and keeper-batter Rashid Latif hailed Dhoni. Latif was asked to share his views on the '41-year-old youngster' by Nauman Niaz. To this, the former cricketer said on the Youtube channel Caught Behind, "He has scored 5000 runs in IPL alone. Dhoni has always had a golden template. His history has been written with gold - for India, for world cricket. You and I can say whatever we like but it won't make a difference. He is easily the greatest ever Indian captain, and also a wicketkeeper batter. There is no doubt there." Also Read: Indian cricket legends MS Dhoni, Yuvraj, Mithali, Jhulan Goswami, Raina bag MCC life membership "Look at the way he batted. He faced just 2-3 balls and showed what he has always been capable of. He is the most famous player. We have seen Sachin Tendulkar, Sunil Gavaskar, even Virat Kohli. But Dhoni, and the way he conducts himself on the field and the following that he has, there is a different vibe and intensity to it altogether. Outstanding," added Latif. CSK are at the sixth position in the points table with one win and a loss. They will next face arch-rivals Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on April 08 (Saturday).

'We've seen SRT, Gavaskar, Kohli, but Dhoni is...': Ex-Pak captain hails CSK skipper for his IPL 2023 heroics

As the cricketing world gears up for the marquee Border-Gavaskar series that starts from February 9th in Nagpur, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif is looking forward to one battle – Virat Kohli vs Pat Cummins. Two of the most dominant figures, Kohli and Cummins have a history together with the Australian remaining on top in a head-to-head battle. Having dismissed Virat five out of six times in the past, Pat is expected to deliver this time as well. Latif, who runs his YouTube channel, opines that Cummins will have a psychological advantage over Kohli come the Test series.

Latif added owing to Cummins’ bowling angle, he tends to trouble the best of batters – be it Kohli or even Babar Azam. With the new ball or even with the reversing one, the Aussie captain will remain a threat to the star Indian batter.

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"Pat Cummins has really troubled Kohli by dismissing him five times in six games. He may not have such domination against any other batter. The way he angles the ball in and then manages to take it away will trouble batters like Kohli and Babar Azam. So this is definitely a battle to watch out for and Cummins will be a threat whether the ball is new or reversing," said Latif on his YouTube channel.

Not only Cummins, Lyon will also come across as a potential wicket-taker against India on the rank turners. Latif feels although India has played him well over the years, they still have to be wary of him given the experience he has now on his back.

“If there are turning pitches on offer, Nathan Lyon has enough experience (to exploit them). But India’s batters play him very well. Australia’s pitches are different - there is bounce over there and the ball also skids a bit. But the Indian batters will get additional time over here, so I feel they can manage well. India, however, cannot take him lightly in the fourth innings,” the former Pakistan skipper added.

Meanwhile, other than Nagpur, Delhi, Dharamsala and Ahmadabad will host the remaining three Tests.

As the cricketing world gears up for the marquee Border-Gavaskar series that starts from February 9th in Nagpur, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif is looking forward to one battle – Virat Kohli vs Pat Cummins.

As the cricketing world gears up for the marquee Border-Gavaskar series that starts from February 9th in Nagpur, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif is looking forward to one battle – Virat Kohli vs Pat Cummins. Two of the most dominant figures, Kohli and Cummins have a history together with the Australian remaining on top in a head-to-head battle. Having dismissed Virat five out of six times in the past, Pat is expected to deliver this time as well. Latif, who runs his YouTube channel, opines that Cummins will have a psychological advantage over Kohli come the Test series. Latif added owing to Cummins’ bowling angle, he tends to trouble the best of batters – be it Kohli or even Babar Azam. With the new ball or even with the reversing one, the Aussie captain will remain a threat to the star Indian batter. ALSO READ: India's Shubman Gill, Mohammed Siraj nominated for ICC Player of the Month Award for January "Pat Cummins has really troubled Kohli by dismissing him five times in six games. He may not have such domination against any other batter. The way he angles the ball in and then manages to take it away will trouble batters like Kohli and Babar Azam. So this is definitely a battle to watch out for and Cummins will be a threat whether the ball is new or reversing," said Latif on his YouTube channel. Not only Cummins, Lyon will also come across as a potential wicket-taker against India on the rank turners. Latif feels although India has played him well over the years, they still have to be wary of him given the experience he has now on his back. “If there are turning pitches on offer, Nathan Lyon has enough experience (to exploit them). But India’s batters play him very well. Australia’s pitches are different - there is bounce over there and the ball also skids a bit. But the Indian batters will get additional time over here, so I feel they can manage well. India, however, cannot take him lightly in the fourth innings,” the former Pakistan skipper added. Meanwhile, other than Nagpur, Delhi, Dharamsala and Ahmadabad will host the remaining three Tests.

Virat Kohli vs Pat Cummins is the battle everyone's waiting for, says former Pakistan captain

Former Pakistan cricket team captain Wasim Akram has taken another dig at his compatriots from back in the day. In his autobiography titled, "Sultan: A Memoir", Akram dubbed Rashid Latif a 'lobbyist' while addressing Aamir Sohail as a 'zombie figure'.

Former Pakistan cricket team captain Wasim Akram has taken another dig at his compatriots from back in the day. In his autobiography titled, "Sultan: A Memoir", Akram dubbed Rashid Latif a 'lobbyist' while addressing Aamir Sohail as a 'zombie figure'. In an excerpt from the book, Akram recounted an incident from 2000 when Latif went to give an interview to a UK newspaper. "The lobbyists were at work. In July 2000, Rashid Latif gave an interview to The Sunday Telegraph in which he claimed to have been offered £15,000 to ensure Pakistan were bowled out for under 300 in the 1996 Lord's Test," wrote Akram in the book. "And who knows? Maybe he had. But had he told me, his captain, at the time? No. Had he reported it to his coach or manager? No. Had he told Qayyum? No. Amazingly, these stories only ever came out when he wanted attention." Similarly, Akram took a shot at former Pakistan opener Aamir Sohail who coincidentally was a key member of the Pakistan outfit that won the 1992 World Cup. "I was publicly reinstated as captain for the DMC Trophy in Toronto. The clamour for change was satisfied by a new coach, Wasim Raja, and new selectors: Wasim's brother Ramiz, Naushad Ali and Abdur Raquib. They recalled, after his tireless lobbying, the zombie figure of Aamir Sohail," wrote Akram. Akram's other revelations This is not the first time that explosive revelations have come out of Akram's book. In a previously released excerpt, Akram said that Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja benefitted on the field due to his father's reputation. Akram recalled a Test match against New Zealand where the PCB boss received preferential treatment because his father was a police commissioner. “The first over the next day was delivered by Asif Faridi, a local quick; I was thrown the new ball for the second. I was in my fourth over when John Wright, New Zealand's captain, nicked to Ramiz at second slip. For all his batting kill, Ramiz was at slip for reasons of rank, because his father was a commissioner and because he'd attended Aitchison College," Akram wrote in the book. Read more: 'Ramiz Raja was at slip due to his father's rank': Wasim Akram makes another bombshell claim Akram revealed that his former captain Saleem Malik took advantage of his junior status. "He would take advantage of my junior status. He was negative, selfish and treated me like a servant. He demanded I massage him; he ordered me to clean his clothes and boots." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Wasim Akram calls Rashid Latif a “lobbyist” and Aamir Sohail “zombie figure” in his book

MS Dhoni remains a big name in international cricket. The former Indian captain retired from international cricket on August 15, 2020, but remains a darling of the masses due to his rich contribution to Indian cricket.&nbsp;

In his international career, spanning from late 2004 to 2019, Dhoni ended with 17266 runs, 16 centuries, 108 half-centuries, 643 catches, 359 sixes, and 195 stumpings. In addition, he led India to all three ICC titles along with the No. 1 ranking in Tests. He became a household name for his big-hitting prowess, smart and unorthodox keeping skills, and calm and composed nature as captain.&nbsp;

Recently, former Pakistan captain and keeper-batter Rashid Khan made a big claim on Dhoni. According to Rashid, Dhoni's dropping percentage was as high as 21.

“Dhoni was a batsman-wicketkeeper. Obviously, Dhoni is a very big name. But if I go into stats, his dropping percentage is 21 percent, which is huge, huge,” Latif said on his official YouTube channel.

"You can't use my record because this particular record came into being from 2002 or 2003. We had already played by then. Adam Gilchrist had percentage of only 11, Mark Boucher was very good. Australia's Tim Paine started well but towards the end dropped a lot of catches,” Latif asserted.

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Rashid also named the best wicketkeeper-batter of the past 10-15 years. “If you look at the best in last 15 years, then I would say Quinton de Kock is superb, has kept in all three formats and batted at the top of the order in white ball cricket,” the Pakistani added.

Interestingly, the former cricketer didn't delve into the details regarding the statistics he came up with. Nevertheless, Dhoni's keeping skills have been admired and hailed by many former cricketers and he has inspired many&nbsp;emerging wicketkeepers in the country&nbsp;over the years. He will next be seen in action on the 22-yard cricket strip during IPL 2023, once again representing the Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

MS Dhoni remains a big name in international cricket. The former Indian captain retired from international cricket on August 15, 2020, but remains a darling of the masses due to his rich contribution to Indian cricket.

MS Dhoni remains a big name in international cricket. The former Indian captain retired from international cricket on August 15, 2020, but remains a darling of the masses due to his rich contribution to Indian cricket. In his international career, spanning from late 2004 to 2019, Dhoni ended with 17266 runs, 16 centuries, 108 half-centuries, 643 catches, 359 sixes, and 195 stumpings. In addition, he led India to all three ICC titles along with the No. 1 ranking in Tests. He became a household name for his big-hitting prowess, smart and unorthodox keeping skills, and calm and composed nature as captain. Recently, former Pakistan captain and keeper-batter Rashid Khan made a big claim on Dhoni. According to Rashid, Dhoni's dropping percentage was as high as 21. “Dhoni was a batsman-wicketkeeper. Obviously, Dhoni is a very big name. But if I go into stats, his dropping percentage is 21 percent, which is huge, huge,” Latif said on his official YouTube channel. "You can't use my record because this particular record came into being from 2002 or 2003. We had already played by then. Adam Gilchrist had percentage of only 11, Mark Boucher was very good. Australia's Tim Paine started well but towards the end dropped a lot of catches,” Latif asserted. ALSO READ | Pakistan lose against India in World Cup matches due to overexcitement, says Sohaib Maqsood Rashid also named the best wicketkeeper-batter of the past 10-15 years. “If you look at the best in last 15 years, then I would say Quinton de Kock is superb, has kept in all three formats and batted at the top of the order in white ball cricket,” the Pakistani added. Interestingly, the former cricketer didn't delve into the details regarding the statistics he came up with. Nevertheless, Dhoni's keeping skills have been admired and hailed by many former cricketers and he has inspired many emerging wicketkeepers in the country over the years. He will next be seen in action on the 22-yard cricket strip during IPL 2023, once again representing the Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

'MS Dhoni's dropping percentage was 21' - Former Pakistan captain's big claim on India legend's keeping skills

Among the cricket fans, all&nbsp;eyes are on the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022, which will be held in Sri Lanka, followed by the T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia in October-November. The two big marquee events will also give fans plenty to cheer for as India and Pakistan will square off against each other in both the tournaments.&nbsp;

Last year, the senior men's teams locked horns against each other in the&nbsp;T20 World Cup (T20 WC), held in the UAE. Contrary to expectations, the Babar Azam-led Men in Green demolished India by ten wickets to achieve their maiden win over their Asian neighbours in any World Cup (ODIs or T20Is). Thus, this time around, fans will see more of both sides against each other in the Asia Cup as well as the eighth edition of the T20 WC. Ahead of the rivalry getting resumed on the 22-yard cricket strip, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has made a big statement claiming that Babar &amp; Co. are a better side than Rohit Sharma-led India.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"India is no doubt a good team, but there’s no example of the way Pakistan is currently playing cricket," the former Pakistan cricketer was quoted as saying by&nbsp;Cricket Pakistan. "Pakistan has players like Shaheen Shah Afridi, Babar Azam, and Mohammad Rizwan who are currently named as the best players by the ICC," he opined.

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Further, the ex-Pakistan captain and keeper feels it will be India vs Pakistan in the Asia Cup, to be held in the Island nation in August-September, in the T20I format. "I am hopeful for Pakistan to win the Asia Cup in 2022. The victory against India in the recent T20 World Cup 2021 has increased hopes for Pakistan," Latif stated. "No doubt other teams are also competitive, but the main competition in Asia Cup 2022 will be between India and Pakistan," Latif mentioned.

Among the cricket fans, all eyes are on the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022, which will be held in Sri Lanka, followed by the T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia in October-November.

Among the cricket fans, all eyes are on the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022, which will be held in Sri Lanka, followed by the T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia in October-November. The two big marquee events will also give fans plenty to cheer for as India and Pakistan will square off against each other in both the tournaments. Last year, the senior men's teams locked horns against each other in the T20 World Cup (T20 WC), held in the UAE. Contrary to expectations, the Babar Azam-led Men in Green demolished India by ten wickets to achieve their maiden win over their Asian neighbours in any World Cup (ODIs or T20Is). Thus, this time around, fans will see more of both sides against each other in the Asia Cup as well as the eighth edition of the T20 WC. Ahead of the rivalry getting resumed on the 22-yard cricket strip, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has made a big statement claiming that Babar & Co. are a better side than Rohit Sharma-led India. "India is no doubt a good team, but there’s no example of the way Pakistan is currently playing cricket," the former Pakistan cricketer was quoted as saying by Cricket Pakistan. "Pakistan has players like Shaheen Shah Afridi, Babar Azam, and Mohammad Rizwan who are currently named as the best players by the ICC," he opined. ALSO READ | Babar Azam has 'almost overtaken' his next-door neighbour Virat Kohli, feels former WI pacer Further, the ex-Pakistan captain and keeper feels it will be India vs Pakistan in the Asia Cup, to be held in the Island nation in August-September, in the T20I format. "I am hopeful for Pakistan to win the Asia Cup in 2022. The victory against India in the recent T20 World Cup 2021 has increased hopes for Pakistan," Latif stated. "No doubt other teams are also competitive, but the main competition in Asia Cup 2022 will be between India and Pakistan," Latif mentioned.

'India is a good team, but....' - Rashid Latif makes big statement on Men in Blue's rivalry with Pakistan

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has made some sensational remarks against ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri, blaming him for the downfall of Virat Kohli. The Indian batting maestro has been enduring a rough patch with the willow across formats for the past few years now. Kohli is yet to score a century in international cricket since November 2019 and has looked far from his best for the Men in Blue.

While he has struggled to deliver consistently for the Indian team, his rough patch continued in the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. While Kohli has been scoring runs in patches and has not been completely out of form, his performances still have been below-par considering the standards set by the batting maestro.

One of the best batters in the world at present, Kohli has failed to notch up a big score for India for over 2.5 years now and will be hopeful of sparking a turnaround soon. Speaking about his poor patch, former Pakistan captain&nbsp;Latif recently blamed Shastri for Kohli's abysmal run and said had the former India all-rounder not been appointed as head coach, Kohli would not have been out of form.

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"It is because of him (Ravi Shastri) that this has happened. In 2019 (Shastri was appointed as India head coach in 2017), you sidelined a player like Kumble and in came Ravi Shastri. Whether he had the accreditation or not, I have no idea. He was a broadcaster. Had no business in coaching,"&nbsp;Latif said in a video on his YouTube channel.

"Barring Virat Kohli, I am sure there would have been other people who played a role in getting Shastri in. But that is backfiring now, isn't it? Had he (Shastri) not become the coach, he (Kohli) wouldn’t have gone out (of form)," he added.

Shastri had first worked with the Indian team as a director for two years from 2014 to 2016 before being appointed as the head coach of the team in 2017 following the sacking of Kumble as the head coach. He formed a great relationship with then captain Kohli and the duo enjoyed tremendous success as a coach-captain pair.

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India became a force to reckon with under Shastri and Kohli and were the number one Test team in the world for a long period. They also became the first Asian team to win a historic Test series in Australia in 2018-19. Shastri's contract was renewed ahead of the ICC ODI World Cup in 2019 and he served as India's head coach till 2021.

While India failed to win a major ICC trophy under him, Shastri and Kohli guided India to some memorable series wins both at home and away from home. India won their second straight Test series under Shastri in Australia in 2020-21 in the absence of Kohli.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has made some sensational remarks against ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri, blaming him for the downfall of Virat Kohli. The Indian batting maestro has been enduring a rough patch with the willow across formats for the past few years now.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has made some sensational remarks against ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri, blaming him for the downfall of Virat Kohli. The Indian batting maestro has been enduring a rough patch with the willow across formats for the past few years now. Kohli is yet to score a century in international cricket since November 2019 and has looked far from his best for the Men in Blue. While he has struggled to deliver consistently for the Indian team, his rough patch continued in the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. While Kohli has been scoring runs in patches and has not been completely out of form, his performances still have been below-par considering the standards set by the batting maestro. One of the best batters in the world at present, Kohli has failed to notch up a big score for India for over 2.5 years now and will be hopeful of sparking a turnaround soon. Speaking about his poor patch, former Pakistan captain Latif recently blamed Shastri for Kohli's abysmal run and said had the former India all-rounder not been appointed as head coach, Kohli would not have been out of form. Also Read: No rest for Kohli & Rohit, duo likely to be available for T20I series against England - Report "It is because of him (Ravi Shastri) that this has happened. In 2019 (Shastri was appointed as India head coach in 2017), you sidelined a player like Kumble and in came Ravi Shastri. Whether he had the accreditation or not, I have no idea. He was a broadcaster. Had no business in coaching," Latif said in a video on his YouTube channel. "Barring Virat Kohli, I am sure there would have been other people who played a role in getting Shastri in. But that is backfiring now, isn't it? Had he (Shastri) not become the coach, he (Kohli) wouldn’t have gone out (of form)," he added. Shastri had first worked with the Indian team as a director for two years from 2014 to 2016 before being appointed as the head coach of the team in 2017 following the sacking of Kumble as the head coach. He formed a great relationship with then captain Kohli and the duo enjoyed tremendous success as a coach-captain pair. Also Read: 'Best acquisition of a player': Former RCB owner Vijay Mallya catches up with Chris Gayle India became a force to reckon with under Shastri and Kohli and were the number one Test team in the world for a long period. They also became the first Asian team to win a historic Test series in Australia in 2018-19. Shastri's contract was renewed ahead of the ICC ODI World Cup in 2019 and he served as India's head coach till 2021. While India failed to win a major ICC trophy under him, Shastri and Kohli guided India to some memorable series wins both at home and away from home. India won their second straight Test series under Shastri in Australia in 2020-21 in the absence of Kohli.

'This has happened because of him': Ex-Pakistan captain blames Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli's poor form

KL Rahul was criticised by many for failing to change gears in time during his side Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)'s clash against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Eliminator of the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Chasing a big target of 208 runs, Rahul scored 79 off 58 balls for LSG but failed to get them over the line as they lost the game by 14 runs.

While his skills and talent is there to see for everyone, Rahul didn't quite manage to make the best use of his potential for LSG in IPL 2022. He was often scrutinised for being too slow in his approach and was also slammed by fans for not accelerating his strike rate despite the team being under pressure.

Rahul had yet another prolific season with the bat for LSG, amassing 616 runs in 15 matches for his team but failed to inspire them to their maiden title. LSG bowed out of the tournament after losing against RCB in the Eliminator. Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif recently shared his views on Rahul's batting.

Latif said there is no doubt that Rahul is a fine batter and a special player but he is not in the same league as the likes of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. The former Pakistan skipper explained that Rahul plays a lot of dot balls and needs to work on that to improve his game.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-hardik-pandya-to-ravindra-jadeja-how-new-captains-fared-in-ipl-2022-483927">From Hardik Pandya to Ravindra Jadeja: How new captains fared in IPL 2022?</a>

"Wasn't he playing for Punjab Kings before this? He used to bat till the 15th-18th over, while Glenn Maxwell hardly faced 2 balls. The team did not qualify. Even Gayle was there but he played in the end. See, there is no doubt that KL Rahul is a fine player, and the pitches he played on and scored hundreds were the same where Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan struggled. Sometimes when an opener bats, he thinks it is his responsibility to bat through," Latif said on his YouTube channel&nbsp;'Caught Behind'.

"Rahul is not like Rohit Sharma. Rohit and Kohli belong to a different league, but Rahul too is a special player. Having said that he needs to improve a little. He plays a few too many dot balls for his liking. Since the runs he scores are big, the balls faced a lot too. When he was playing for Punjab, I noticed the same," the former Pakistan skipper added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-captains-aakash-chopras-ipl-2022-xi-no-place-for-dk-rashid-khan-and-umran-malik-483865">Hardik Pandya captains Aakash Chopra's IPL 2022 XI, no place for DK, Rashid Khan and Umran Malik</a>

Rahul has been one of the most consistent performers with the willow in the IPL over the last few seasons. He was the highest run-getter in the league in IPL 2020 before finishing third on the list in IPL 2021 last year. He once again went past the 600-run mark this season to continue his purple patch. However, his efforts were not enough to take his side to the final of the season.

KL Rahul was criticised by many for failing to change gears in time during his side Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)'s clash against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Eliminator of the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022.

KL Rahul was criticised by many for failing to change gears in time during his side Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)'s clash against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Eliminator of the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Chasing a big target of 208 runs, Rahul scored 79 off 58 balls for LSG but failed to get them over the line as they lost the game by 14 runs. While his skills and talent is there to see for everyone, Rahul didn't quite manage to make the best use of his potential for LSG in IPL 2022. He was often scrutinised for being too slow in his approach and was also slammed by fans for not accelerating his strike rate despite the team being under pressure. Rahul had yet another prolific season with the bat for LSG, amassing 616 runs in 15 matches for his team but failed to inspire them to their maiden title. LSG bowed out of the tournament after losing against RCB in the Eliminator. Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif recently shared his views on Rahul's batting. Latif said there is no doubt that Rahul is a fine batter and a special player but he is not in the same league as the likes of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. The former Pakistan skipper explained that Rahul plays a lot of dot balls and needs to work on that to improve his game. Also Read: From Hardik Pandya to Ravindra Jadeja: How new captains fared in IPL 2022? "Wasn't he playing for Punjab Kings before this? He used to bat till the 15th-18th over, while Glenn Maxwell hardly faced 2 balls. The team did not qualify. Even Gayle was there but he played in the end. See, there is no doubt that KL Rahul is a fine player, and the pitches he played on and scored hundreds were the same where Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan struggled. Sometimes when an opener bats, he thinks it is his responsibility to bat through," Latif said on his YouTube channel 'Caught Behind'. "Rahul is not like Rohit Sharma. Rohit and Kohli belong to a different league, but Rahul too is a special player. Having said that he needs to improve a little. He plays a few too many dot balls for his liking. Since the runs he scores are big, the balls faced a lot too. When he was playing for Punjab, I noticed the same," the former Pakistan skipper added. Also Read: Hardik Pandya captains Aakash Chopra's IPL 2022 XI, no place for DK, Rashid Khan and Umran Malik Rahul has been one of the most consistent performers with the willow in the IPL over the last few seasons. He was the highest run-getter in the league in IPL 2020 before finishing third on the list in IPL 2021 last year. He once again went past the 600-run mark this season to continue his purple patch. However, his efforts were not enough to take his side to the final of the season.

KL Rahul a special player but Kohli and Rohit belong in a different league, says former Pakistan captain

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