On Sunday (May 22), the BCCI selection committee released an 18-member Team India squad for their upcoming five-match T20I series versus South Africa, which is set to be held in India from June 09. While regular captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah have been rested, KL Rahul has been given the task to lead the side comprising some young and veteran cricketers.

While some uncapped players such as Umran Malik and Arshdeep Singh have been rewarded following their performances in IPL 2022, Ishan Kishan managed to hold onto his place despite an ordinary run in the 15th season for the five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI). Being the most expensive player in this year's mega auction, the 23-year-old Ishan ended the 15th edition with&nbsp;418 runs at a strike rate of&nbsp;120.11 in&nbsp;14 matches. He wasn't at his consistent best and surely felt the pressure of a heavy price tag.&nbsp;

Thus, many raised concerns about seeing Ishan's name in the 18-man squad, however, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has backed the selection of the MI and India opener. He cited examples of Rohit and Virat's ordinary runs with the bat in the ongoing season and defended Ishan. For the unversed, Rohit ended with not even a single half-century whereas Kohli too struggled for runs but has managed two half-centuries in 14 games with his IPL franchise, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) still alive in the competition with a hard-earned playoffs ticket.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-how-ms-dhonis-csk-and-rohit-sharma-led-mis-debacle-was-always-on-the-cards-481557">IPL 2022: How MS Dhoni's CSK and Rohit Sharma-led MI's debacle was always on the cards</a>

"One IPL season doesn't make a difference. He is a value and utility player. There’s no draft or auction factor involved here while playing for India. When a player goes for ₹15 crore, all 8 franchises are after him. That’s how you calculate his value. Scoring runs in IPL is different. Even Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli haven't scored runs. Ishan Kishan has certainly undergone a chance, because of which he couldn't perform as well as he would have liked to. And that was one big reason why MI struggled this season," Latif said on YouTube show 'Caught Behind'.

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-lot-of-people-had-given-up-on-me-dinesh-karthik-reacts-after-his-memorable-team-india-comeback-481413">'A lot of people had given up on me' - Dinesh Karthik reacts after his memorable Team India comeback</a>

India's T20I squad for the South Africa series -&nbsp;KL Rahul (Capt), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(VC) (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, R Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik
</section>

On Sunday (May 22), the BCCI selection committee released an 18-member Team India squad for their upcoming five-match T20I series versus South Africa, which is set to be held in India from June 09.

On Sunday (May 22), the BCCI selection committee released an 18-member Team India squad for their upcoming five-match T20I series versus South Africa, which is set to be held in India from June 09. While regular captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah have been rested, KL Rahul has been given the task to lead the side comprising some young and veteran cricketers. While some uncapped players such as Umran Malik and Arshdeep Singh have been rewarded following their performances in IPL 2022, Ishan Kishan managed to hold onto his place despite an ordinary run in the 15th season for the five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI). Being the most expensive player in this year's mega auction, the 23-year-old Ishan ended the 15th edition with 418 runs at a strike rate of 120.11 in 14 matches. He wasn't at his consistent best and surely felt the pressure of a heavy price tag. Thus, many raised concerns about seeing Ishan's name in the 18-man squad, however, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has backed the selection of the MI and India opener. He cited examples of Rohit and Virat's ordinary runs with the bat in the ongoing season and defended Ishan. For the unversed, Rohit ended with not even a single half-century whereas Kohli too struggled for runs but has managed two half-centuries in 14 games with his IPL franchise, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) still alive in the competition with a hard-earned playoffs ticket. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: How MS Dhoni's CSK and Rohit Sharma-led MI's debacle was always on the cards "One IPL season doesn't make a difference. He is a value and utility player. There’s no draft or auction factor involved here while playing for India. When a player goes for ₹15 crore, all 8 franchises are after him. That’s how you calculate his value. Scoring runs in IPL is different. Even Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli haven't scored runs. Ishan Kishan has certainly undergone a chance, because of which he couldn't perform as well as he would have liked to. And that was one big reason why MI struggled this season," Latif said on YouTube show 'Caught Behind'. ALSO READ | 'A lot of people had given up on me' - Dinesh Karthik reacts after his memorable Team India comeback India's T20I squad for the South Africa series - KL Rahul (Capt), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(VC) (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, R Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

Even Rohit, Virat haven't scored runs: Former Pak captain defends Ishan Kishan's selection for SA T20Is

Recently, the Kashmir Premier League's (KPL) President Arif Malik made heads turn when he announced that he has decided to send a formal invite to India's star batter Virat Kohli to participate in the second edition of the league, in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK), or at least grace his presence as a guest.

Thus, this led to a widespread reaction from all quarters. Recently, KPL's Director of Cricket Operations and Pakistan's former captain Rashid Latif has clarified that the league's President has decided not only to&nbsp;call Kohli but also many other marquee players from different countries. However, the decision to invite Kohli was solely Malik's, as per Latif's claims.

"My boss Arif Malik gave a statement on inviting Virat Kohli for the Kashmir Premier League. Whether to come or not, it's his call. But he has taken the initiative after some thinking. He will invite players from other countries as well as India, but these are not my quotes. Please don't quote that I said so," Latif said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kashmir-premier-league-to-formally-invite-indian-star-virat-kohli-to-feature-in-2nd-edition-report-479784">Kashmir Premier League to formally invite Indian star Virat Kohli to feature in 2nd edition: Report</a>

Earlier, Malik had said in a video shared on social media platform Twitter, "(Md) Rizwan gave a very positive message that cricket should be beyond anything else. So we are sending a letter to Virat Kohli, inviting him to play in the league or at least come and watch one match."

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Arif Malik President KPL announces inclusion of Indian cricketer Virat Kohli in KPL،he said We are sending a formal invitations to Virat Kohli, 
Its up to on Virat Kohli whether to beome part of the league as a player or as a special guest<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/virat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#virat</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> <a href="https://t.co/LkllhHNduG">pic.twitter.com/LkllhHNduG</a>
— Rozina Ali (@roseeyna_ali) <a href="https://twitter.com/roseeyna_ali/status/1526451342033981440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
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It remains to be seen if Kohli associates himself with the controversial league in any form. The second edition of the KPL will commence on August 1 and conclude on August 14. During that time, India is also scheduled to tour West Indies for three ODIs and five T20Is, from July 22-August 07.&nbsp;

Recently, the Kashmir Premier League's (KPL) President Arif Malik made heads turn when he announced that he has decided to send a formal invite to India's star batter Virat Kohli to participate in the second edition of the league, in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK), or at least grace his presence as a guest.

Recently, the Kashmir Premier League's (KPL) President Arif Malik made heads turn when he announced that he has decided to send a formal invite to India's star batter Virat Kohli to participate in the second edition of the league, in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK), or at least grace his presence as a guest. Thus, this led to a widespread reaction from all quarters. Recently, KPL's Director of Cricket Operations and Pakistan's former captain Rashid Latif has clarified that the league's President has decided not only to call Kohli but also many other marquee players from different countries. However, the decision to invite Kohli was solely Malik's, as per Latif's claims. "My boss Arif Malik gave a statement on inviting Virat Kohli for the Kashmir Premier League. Whether to come or not, it's his call. But he has taken the initiative after some thinking. He will invite players from other countries as well as India, but these are not my quotes. Please don't quote that I said so," Latif said. ALSO READ | Kashmir Premier League to formally invite Indian star Virat Kohli to feature in 2nd edition: Report Earlier, Malik had said in a video shared on social media platform Twitter, "(Md) Rizwan gave a very positive message that cricket should be beyond anything else. So we are sending a letter to Virat Kohli, inviting him to play in the league or at least come and watch one match." Arif Malik President KPL announces inclusion of Indian cricketer Virat Kohli in KPL،he said We are sending a formal invitations to Virat Kohli, Its up to on Virat Kohli whether to beome part of the league as a player or as a special guest#virat #Cricket @imVkohli pic.twitter.com/LkllhHNduG — Rozina Ali (@roseeyna_ali) May 17, 2022 × It remains to be seen if Kohli associates himself with the controversial league in any form. The second edition of the KPL will commence on August 1 and conclude on August 14. During that time, India is also scheduled to tour West Indies for three ODIs and five T20Is, from July 22-August 07.

Arif Malik decided to invite Virat Kohli, not me: Kashmir Premier League's Director Rashid Latif

IPL 2022 has been a below-par season for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)'s former skipper Virat Kohli. Having relinquished&nbsp;RCB captaincy last year, the 33-year-old was expected to perform at his usual best in the 15th season, however, he has failed to get going and has only 216 runs in 12 matches, at an average of 19.64 and has struck at a woeful 111.34.

The right-hander has so far scored only a single fifty and has had as many as three golden ducks up his sleeves. Amid his poor form, many former cricketers have suggested him to take a break in order to rediscover his magical run. Former Pakistan captain and keeper-batter Rashid Latif also joined the bandwagon and made a big statement on Kohli's struggles.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gujarat-titans-or-lucknow-super-giants-harbhajan-reveals-which-team-will-be-the-1st-to-qualify-for-playoffs-477881">Gujarat Titans or Lucknow Super Giants? Harbhajan reveals which team will be the 1st to qualify for playoffs</a>

“I had earlier said this, he needs to either bat up the order or down the order. Since opening hasn't work, may be he can come down the order now. He now doubts his own ability. He cannot play&nbsp;the way he is playing now. That won't work anyway. He needs to bat in that flow. If he can find that rhythm once again, he can come out of it,” he said on his YouTube show Caught Behind.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-superstar-virat-kohli-to-finisher-dinesh-karthik-top-ten-run-getters-in-ipl-477676">From superstar Virat Kohli to finisher Dinesh Karthik: Top ten run-getters in IPL</a>

Despite Kohli's&nbsp;woeful run, the three-time runners-up RCB have been in good form and are currently occupying the fourth spot in the IPL 2022 points table, with 14 points (with two games in hand). They are very much in contention to enter the playoffs and will aim to end as high as possible in the overall standings.&nbsp;

IPL 2022 has been a below-par season for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)'s former skipper Virat Kohli. Having relinquished RCB captaincy last year, the 33-year-old was expected to perform at his usual best in the 15th season, however, he has failed to get going and has only 216 runs in 12 matches, at an average of 19.

IPL 2022 has been a below-par season for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)'s former skipper Virat Kohli. Having relinquished RCB captaincy last year, the 33-year-old was expected to perform at his usual best in the 15th season, however, he has failed to get going and has only 216 runs in 12 matches, at an average of 19.64 and has struck at a woeful 111.34. The right-hander has so far scored only a single fifty and has had as many as three golden ducks up his sleeves. Amid his poor form, many former cricketers have suggested him to take a break in order to rediscover his magical run. Former Pakistan captain and keeper-batter Rashid Latif also joined the bandwagon and made a big statement on Kohli's struggles. ALSO READ | Gujarat Titans or Lucknow Super Giants? Harbhajan reveals which team will be the 1st to qualify for playoffs “I had earlier said this, he needs to either bat up the order or down the order. Since opening hasn't work, may be he can come down the order now. He now doubts his own ability. He cannot play the way he is playing now. That won't work anyway. He needs to bat in that flow. If he can find that rhythm once again, he can come out of it,” he said on his YouTube show Caught Behind. ALSO READ | From superstar Virat Kohli to finisher Dinesh Karthik: Top ten run-getters in IPL Despite Kohli's woeful run, the three-time runners-up RCB have been in good form and are currently occupying the fourth spot in the IPL 2022 points table, with 14 points (with two games in hand). They are very much in contention to enter the playoffs and will aim to end as high as possible in the overall standings.

He now doubts his own ability: Former Pakistan captain opines on Virat Kohli's struggles in IPL 2022

Virat Kohli's form has become a huge talking point in world cricket. The 33-year-old has been without an international century since late 2019. In fact, he has now completed over 100 matches across formats, including IPL 2022, without a triple-figure mark.

While Kohli has contributed with half-centuries, mainly in white-ball formats, his struggles have been evident from time to time. In IPL 15, he has only one fifty-plus score and has amassed&nbsp;216 runs at an average of 21.60 and a strike rate of 111.91. Many former cricketers such as Ravi Shastri, Kevin Pietersen, Parthiv Patel, Virender Sehwag, Ian Bishop, etc. have commented on Kohli's struggles. Now, former Pakistan captain and wicketkeeper-batter Rashid Latif has joined the bandwagon and made a big statement.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-something-weve-been-seeing-with-him-ian-bishop-expresses-concern-over-virat-kohlis-poor-form-476586">This is something we've been seeing with him: Ian Bishop expresses concern over Virat Kohli's poor form</a>

"Every player goes through this phase, some come out of it early, some take a long. Guys like Kohli have more pressure because they are attractions. Ravi Shastri and others have suggested rest but Virat Kohli knows best."

"When he was in form, he would score heaps of runs. The way he used to perform, Virat was set to break Sachin Tendulkar's record with ease, he had scored so many hundreds. He took it to the extreme. But now when he is dealing with bad form, that too has come at extreme, that too has peaked,"&nbsp;Latif said on his Youtube show&nbsp;'caught-behind.'

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-giving-interviews-to-our-enemy-country-which-can-incite-religious-sentiments-afridi-on-kanerias-claims-476846">He's giving interviews to our enemy country which can incite religious sentiments: Afridi on Kaneria's claims</a>

Reflecting on Kohli's struggles in the 15th season of the IPL, Latif added, "He has to come out of this rough patch himself. Everyone has the belief in him and he will come back, and the day he realised it himself, he will start doing it. Against Gujarat Titans, he has started doing it (Kohli scored a 53-ball 58). I could see that touch,"

"In the last few games, there were a few inside-edged and things like that but the other day against GT, he hit a couple of crisp drives, played Shami well, and he looks on good touch. If he can continue doing it, runs will come," concluded Latif.

To back Latif's claims, it did look realistically possible for Kohli to break&nbsp;or come near Tendulkar's tally of international tons (100). In late 2019, Kohli had registered his 70th century. While he can get back to form and deliver the goods as he used to earlier, it seems unlikely that Kohli will now come close to Tendulkar's tally.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli's form has become a huge talking point in world cricket. The 33-year-old has been without an international century since late 2019. In fact, he has now completed over 100 matches across formats, including IPL 2022, without a triple-figure mark.

Virat Kohli's form has become a huge talking point in world cricket. The 33-year-old has been without an international century since late 2019. In fact, he has now completed over 100 matches across formats, including IPL 2022, without a triple-figure mark. While Kohli has contributed with half-centuries, mainly in white-ball formats, his struggles have been evident from time to time. In IPL 15, he has only one fifty-plus score and has amassed 216 runs at an average of 21.60 and a strike rate of 111.91. Many former cricketers such as Ravi Shastri, Kevin Pietersen, Parthiv Patel, Virender Sehwag, Ian Bishop, etc. have commented on Kohli's struggles. Now, former Pakistan captain and wicketkeeper-batter Rashid Latif has joined the bandwagon and made a big statement. ALSO READ | This is something we've been seeing with him: Ian Bishop expresses concern over Virat Kohli's poor form "Every player goes through this phase, some come out of it early, some take a long. Guys like Kohli have more pressure because they are attractions. Ravi Shastri and others have suggested rest but Virat Kohli knows best." "When he was in form, he would score heaps of runs. The way he used to perform, Virat was set to break Sachin Tendulkar's record with ease, he had scored so many hundreds. He took it to the extreme. But now when he is dealing with bad form, that too has come at extreme, that too has peaked," Latif said on his Youtube show 'caught-behind.' ALSO READ | He's giving interviews to our enemy country which can incite religious sentiments: Afridi on Kaneria's claims Reflecting on Kohli's struggles in the 15th season of the IPL, Latif added, "He has to come out of this rough patch himself. Everyone has the belief in him and he will come back, and the day he realised it himself, he will start doing it. Against Gujarat Titans, he has started doing it (Kohli scored a 53-ball 58). I could see that touch," "In the last few games, there were a few inside-edged and things like that but the other day against GT, he hit a couple of crisp drives, played Shami well, and he looks on good touch. If he can continue doing it, runs will come," concluded Latif. To back Latif's claims, it did look realistically possible for Kohli to break or come near Tendulkar's tally of international tons (100). In late 2019, Kohli had registered his 70th century. While he can get back to form and deliver the goods as he used to earlier, it seems unlikely that Kohli will now come close to Tendulkar's tally.

'He was set to break Sachin Tendulkar's record' - Ex-Pakistan captain opines on Virat Kohli's struggles

Former Pakistan cricket team skipper Rashid Latif believes that Rishabh Pant can be the perfect choice to replace Rohit Sharma as the white-ball captain for India in the future. Latif went on to compare his ‘out-of-box’ thinking with greats like Mohammad Azharuddin, MS Dhoni and Sourav Ganguly while suggesting that the unique way of thinking makes him a perfect candidate.

“KL Rahul is a good option. He has led the Punjab side in the IPL efficiently in the past. But I think India should look at a younger option in white-ball cricket. Maybe someone like Rishabh Pant, if he is able to maintain his fitness,” Latif said on his official YouTube channel.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl-duo-larry-fitzgerald-kelvin-beachum-and-nba-star-chris-paul-invest-in-ipl-franchise-rajasthan-royals-475368" hreflang="en">NFL duo and NBA star Chris Paul invest in IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals</a>

“Players like Sourav Ganguly, Mohammad Azharuddin, MS Dhoni were different, they used to think out-of-the-box. Rishabh Pant is similar in that way, he is unique and has an out-of-the-box approach," he added while discussing India’s options as replacement for Rohit as skipper.

Latif also picked Hardik Pandya as another option for the white-ball captaincy but added that it depends on his fitness and how consistently he can keep bowling. "Otherwise, if he can bowl consistently, even Hardik Pandya is a good option for India in white-ball captaincy,” Latif said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-do-not-interfere-csk-ceo-reveals-who-took-the-call-to-hand-over-captaincy-back-to-ms-dhoni-475359" hreflang="en">CSK CEO reveals who took the call to hand over captaincy back to Dhoni</a>

Both Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya are captains in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 and it has been a mixed show for the duo. While Pandya has excelled with the table toppers Gujarat Titans in their debut season, Pant’s run with Delhi Capitals have been quite inconsistent till now.

Former Pakistan cricket team skipper Rashid Latif believes that Rishabh Pant can be the perfect choice to replace Rohit Sharma as the white-ball captain for India in the future.

Former Pakistan cricket team skipper Rashid Latif believes that Rishabh Pant can be the perfect choice to replace Rohit Sharma as the white-ball captain for India in the future. Latif went on to compare his ‘out-of-box’ thinking with greats like Mohammad Azharuddin, MS Dhoni and Sourav Ganguly while suggesting that the unique way of thinking makes him a perfect candidate. “KL Rahul is a good option. He has led the Punjab side in the IPL efficiently in the past. But I think India should look at a younger option in white-ball cricket. Maybe someone like Rishabh Pant, if he is able to maintain his fitness,” Latif said on his official YouTube channel. Also read | NFL duo and NBA star Chris Paul invest in IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals “Players like Sourav Ganguly, Mohammad Azharuddin, MS Dhoni were different, they used to think out-of-the-box. Rishabh Pant is similar in that way, he is unique and has an out-of-the-box approach," he added while discussing India’s options as replacement for Rohit as skipper. Latif also picked Hardik Pandya as another option for the white-ball captaincy but added that it depends on his fitness and how consistently he can keep bowling. "Otherwise, if he can bowl consistently, even Hardik Pandya is a good option for India in white-ball captaincy,” Latif said. Also read | CSK CEO reveals who took the call to hand over captaincy back to Dhoni Both Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya are captains in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 and it has been a mixed show for the duo. While Pandya has excelled with the table toppers Gujarat Titans in their debut season, Pant’s run with Delhi Capitals have been quite inconsistent till now.

Former Pakistan cricketer picks two stars who can replace Rohit Sharma as India's white-ball skipper

Virat Kohli has dominated world cricket, especially since India's 2011 ODI World Cup win and following stalwart Sachin Tendulkar's international retirement. Kohli has been India's go-to-man whenever they need to address a batting collapse, across formats, and has bailed the team out on numerous occasions with fighting knocks, finishing touches and several memorable tons.

From 2012-2019, Kohli majorly dominated the scoring charts and has guided India to plethora of wins. However, the superstar cricketer and former Indian captain has been nothing close to his usual best with the bat -- in any formats -- since late 2019 despite scoring half-centuries at regular intervals. It is the triple-figure knocks which have evaded Kohli and, thus, former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif addressed the Indian's indifferent run and also mentioned a technical flaw in his approach while comparing him with the Master Blaster.

“When I speak about Virat, he always used to go across the stumps. But he never believed in date, stats, coaching. He is a great player but got caught. A bottom-hand player who goes across, he got caught there. That is why when the ball goes away, he would have a problem,” Latif said on his YouTube channel ‘Caught Behind’.

<section>
“Recently, Sri Lanka came to India for a Test series. The ball was kept low. On such low pitches, Sachin would never get out, whereas Virat did. Tendulkar would change his strategy. He would come inside the crease if it’s spinning too much, and vice-versa. Sachin has had this problem a few times – like Asif dismissed him in Karachi (2006), but most often he would adjust. So this is the difference if I have to compare (Kohli and Tendulkar). On poor pitches, there is no batsman better than Sachin," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-share-heartwarming-video-of-catchups-as-virat-kohli-ravindra-jadeja-du-plessis-co-reunite-watch-470475">CSK share heartwarming video of 'catchups' as Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, Du Plessis &amp; Co. reunite - WATCH</a>

Currently, Kohli is involved in IPL 2022 edition, where he his representing his franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). He gave up RCB captaincy last year and will like to make this a memorable season with the bat with several big scores.

So far, RCB have three wins from four encounters and occupy the third spot in the points table.
</section>

Virat Kohli has dominated world cricket, especially since India's 2011 ODI World Cup win and following stalwart Sachin Tendulkar's international retirement. Kohli has been India's go-to-man whenever they need to address a batting collapse, across formats, and has bailed the team out on numerous occasions with fighting knocks, finishing touches and several memorable tons.

Virat Kohli has dominated world cricket, especially since India's 2011 ODI World Cup win and following stalwart Sachin Tendulkar's international retirement. Kohli has been India's go-to-man whenever they need to address a batting collapse, across formats, and has bailed the team out on numerous occasions with fighting knocks, finishing touches and several memorable tons. From 2012-2019, Kohli majorly dominated the scoring charts and has guided India to plethora of wins. However, the superstar cricketer and former Indian captain has been nothing close to his usual best with the bat -- in any formats -- since late 2019 despite scoring half-centuries at regular intervals. It is the triple-figure knocks which have evaded Kohli and, thus, former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif addressed the Indian's indifferent run and also mentioned a technical flaw in his approach while comparing him with the Master Blaster. “When I speak about Virat, he always used to go across the stumps. But he never believed in date, stats, coaching. He is a great player but got caught. A bottom-hand player who goes across, he got caught there. That is why when the ball goes away, he would have a problem,” Latif said on his YouTube channel ‘Caught Behind’. “Recently, Sri Lanka came to India for a Test series. The ball was kept low. On such low pitches, Sachin would never get out, whereas Virat did. Tendulkar would change his strategy. He would come inside the crease if it’s spinning too much, and vice-versa. Sachin has had this problem a few times – like Asif dismissed him in Karachi (2006), but most often he would adjust. So this is the difference if I have to compare (Kohli and Tendulkar). On poor pitches, there is no batsman better than Sachin," he added. ALSO READ | CSK share heartwarming video of 'catchups' as Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, Du Plessis & Co. reunite - WATCH Currently, Kohli is involved in IPL 2022 edition, where he his representing his franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). He gave up RCB captaincy last year and will like to make this a memorable season with the bat with several big scores. So far, RCB have three wins from four encounters and occupy the third spot in the points table.

SRT would change strategy: Ex-Pak cricketer mentions difference between Virat Kohli, Master Blaster

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif feels Virat Kohli's rough patch with the willow has extended for too long and that now it's time for him to score big runs for India. Kohli has not enjoyed the best of form in international cricket over the last couple of years as the&nbsp;wait for his 71st international century has extended over two years.

Kohli scored his last international ton in November 2019 and has since failed to reach the triple-figure mark across formats despite having gotten great starts on several occasions. In his last outing which was also Kohli's 100th Test, the batting maestro looked in fine touch as he got off to a good start. However, Kohli once again failed to get a big knock.

Kohli was dismissed on 45 in his 100th Test as he was cleaned up by Sri Lankan spinner Lasith Embuldeniya. As his century drought continues to extend, Latif has backed Kohli to score a century soon. Latif also spoke about Kohli's struggles and said he needs to get back among the runs soon.

“It is time for him to score runs. The bad patch has gone for too long. He has got a great chance here. People are very concerned over his century, but I think he will be slamming a hundred either in this Test or in the next two-three games,” Latif said in a video on his official YouTube channel.

“He had internal problems and lost his captaincy, went out of form. The opposition also works on his weakness and they are bowling him according to the plan," added the former Pakistan skipper.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nobody-can-touch-virat-ex-india-batting-coach-backs-kohli-to-equal-sachin-tendulkars-world-record-461005">'Nobody can touch Virat': Ex-India batting coach backs Kohli to equal Sachin Tendulkar's world record</a>

Further decoding Kohli's struggles with the willow over the last couple of years, Latif said the former India skipper plays with an open stance and has the tendency of going after deliveries outside off which has worked against him. Latif advised Kohli to take help of data analytics to work on his weakness.

“Some players don't believe in data when they're in a good patch. It is time for him to go data analysts. The problem is he has an open stance and chasing deliveries outside off. The opposition has worked on this weakness,” said Latif.

“He has to lessen the number of dot balls he plays. He has to be more aggressive. He has to fasten his initial movement. He is farther from the ball with his open stance. Being late is fine, being very late is dangerous," he added.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif feels Virat Kohli's rough patch with the willow has extended for too long and that now it's time for him to score big runs for India.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif feels Virat Kohli's rough patch with the willow has extended for too long and that now it's time for him to score big runs for India. Kohli has not enjoyed the best of form in international cricket over the last couple of years as the wait for his 71st international century has extended over two years. Kohli scored his last international ton in November 2019 and has since failed to reach the triple-figure mark across formats despite having gotten great starts on several occasions. In his last outing which was also Kohli's 100th Test, the batting maestro looked in fine touch as he got off to a good start. However, Kohli once again failed to get a big knock. Kohli was dismissed on 45 in his 100th Test as he was cleaned up by Sri Lankan spinner Lasith Embuldeniya. As his century drought continues to extend, Latif has backed Kohli to score a century soon. Latif also spoke about Kohli's struggles and said he needs to get back among the runs soon. “It is time for him to score runs. The bad patch has gone for too long. He has got a great chance here. People are very concerned over his century, but I think he will be slamming a hundred either in this Test or in the next two-three games,” Latif said in a video on his official YouTube channel. “He had internal problems and lost his captaincy, went out of form. The opposition also works on his weakness and they are bowling him according to the plan," added the former Pakistan skipper. Also Read: 'Nobody can touch Virat': Ex-India batting coach backs Kohli to equal Sachin Tendulkar's world record Further decoding Kohli's struggles with the willow over the last couple of years, Latif said the former India skipper plays with an open stance and has the tendency of going after deliveries outside off which has worked against him. Latif advised Kohli to take help of data analytics to work on his weakness. “Some players don't believe in data when they're in a good patch. It is time for him to go data analysts. The problem is he has an open stance and chasing deliveries outside off. The opposition has worked on this weakness,” said Latif. “He has to lessen the number of dot balls he plays. He has to be more aggressive. He has to fasten his initial movement. He is farther from the ball with his open stance. Being late is fine, being very late is dangerous," he added.

'Virat's bad patch has gone for too long': Ex-Pakistan captain backs Kohli to end his century drought soon

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been facing criticism from all corners for the quality of pitch offered in the recently-concluded first Test between the hosts and Australia at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi. The flat track at the stadium sparked a run-fest as the two teams managed to pick up only 14 wickets through the course of five days.

Several former cricketers including the likes of Inzamam-ul-Haq, Shahid Afridi and Salman Butt among others criticised the PCB for the kind of pitch that was offered. The International Cricket Council (ICC) also branded the Rawalpindi track as 'below-average'.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has also slammed the Pakistan Cricket Board over the pitch fiasco in the Rawalpindi Test and has said the board is not doing a great job in marketing the series. Australia are touring Pakistan for the first time in 24 years and are the first major side to tour the country in recent times.

Latif believes PCB should be marketing the series in a better way to attract a global audience and other major teams to Pakistan. However, the former Pakistan skipper believes the pitch fiasco has harmed Pakistan cricket.

“This series is different. This is not a series that we're playing for winning. This is a series we are playing to market ourselves. Even if it goes 3-0, I would want that a Rs 100 product is marketed as Rs 150 product. But in the Rawalpindi Test, we sold a Rs 100 product for Rs 5, and it harmed our cricket,” Latif said in a video on his YouTube channel.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-vs-australia-2nd-test-visitors-brace-up-for-karachi-challenge-after-rawalpindi-run-feast-461307">Pakistan vs Australia, 2nd Test: Visitors brace up for Karachi challenge after Rawalpindi run-feast</a>

“Australia sent their no.1 team after 24 years, they're coming straight after beating England 4-0. Their batters are in their top-10 in the rankings, so are their bowlers. We would've wanted to play good cricket, winning or losing is a different thing. We would've wanted to attract people around the world,” he added.

After a disappointing first Test which ended in a draw, Pakistan and Australia will lock horns in the second Test of the three-match series at the National Stadium in Karachi. The Aussies will hope for a better pitch in Karachi to continue their domination against the Men in Green in the longest format.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been facing criticism from all corners for the quality of pitch offered in the recently-concluded first Test between the hosts and Australia at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been facing criticism from all corners for the quality of pitch offered in the recently-concluded first Test between the hosts and Australia at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi. The flat track at the stadium sparked a run-fest as the two teams managed to pick up only 14 wickets through the course of five days. Several former cricketers including the likes of Inzamam-ul-Haq, Shahid Afridi and Salman Butt among others criticised the PCB for the kind of pitch that was offered. The International Cricket Council (ICC) also branded the Rawalpindi track as 'below-average'. Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has also slammed the Pakistan Cricket Board over the pitch fiasco in the Rawalpindi Test and has said the board is not doing a great job in marketing the series. Australia are touring Pakistan for the first time in 24 years and are the first major side to tour the country in recent times. Latif believes PCB should be marketing the series in a better way to attract a global audience and other major teams to Pakistan. However, the former Pakistan skipper believes the pitch fiasco has harmed Pakistan cricket. “This series is different. This is not a series that we're playing for winning. This is a series we are playing to market ourselves. Even if it goes 3-0, I would want that a Rs 100 product is marketed as Rs 150 product. But in the Rawalpindi Test, we sold a Rs 100 product for Rs 5, and it harmed our cricket,” Latif said in a video on his YouTube channel. Also Read: Pakistan vs Australia, 2nd Test: Visitors brace up for Karachi challenge after Rawalpindi run-feast “Australia sent their no.1 team after 24 years, they're coming straight after beating England 4-0. Their batters are in their top-10 in the rankings, so are their bowlers. We would've wanted to play good cricket, winning or losing is a different thing. We would've wanted to attract people around the world,” he added. After a disappointing first Test which ended in a draw, Pakistan and Australia will lock horns in the second Test of the three-match series at the National Stadium in Karachi. The Aussies will hope for a better pitch in Karachi to continue their domination against the Men in Green in the longest format.

'It harmed our cricket': Former Pakistan captain slams PCB over pitch fiasco against Australia

Indian cricket has undergone significant changes since the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 last year. While Ravi Shastri was replaced by Rahul Dravid as the new head coach, Virat Kohli is no more leading India in any format of the game. Kohli had stepped down as T20I captain willingly last year before being sacked as the ODI captain.

He decided to quit Test captaincy earlier this month which has further resulted in turmoil in Indian cricket. With the team suffering crushing defeats in both the Test and the ODI series against South Africa recently, questions have been raised on the side's morale and confidence going forward.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has slammed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for not dealing with the situation properly. Latif believes BCCI president Sourav Ganguly had a role to play in Shastri's exit as head coach and that BCCI would not have let the former all-rounder continue in his role even if he wanted to after his contract expired.

"All this began happening when Anil Kumble was wrongly removed as coach. Ravi Shastri had taken no coaching courses and yet he directly took entry as the coach. This was a strong group – Kumble had over 600 wickets and Sourav Ganguly and Rahul Dravid were his teammates. This trio is very strong," Latif said in a video on YouTube channel Caught Behind.

Latif claimed Shastri was told by BCCI president Ganguly that there was no way he can get another extension as head coach and that it was time for him to go. Shastri had announced before the T20 World Cup 2021 that he will be leaving the India head coach post after the conclusion of the tournament last year.&nbsp;

However, as per the former Pakistan captain, Ganguly had a role in his exit and such personal attacks have hurt Indian cricket in the last few months.

"By all means, Ganguly told Shastri 'boss, it's time to go' even if Shastri had considered continuing as coach. This whole thing has been building up since before the T20 World Cup, these are personal attacks and it has impacted Indian cricket. What happened with Pakistan in the early 1990s is happening today with Indian cricket," Latif said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/should-jasprit-bumrah-succeed-virat-kohli-as-indias-test-captain-ex-head-coach-ravi-shastri-answers-448201">Should Jasprit Bumrah succeed Virat Kohli as India's Test captain? Ex-head coach Ravi Shastri answers</a>

Latif believes KL Rahul isn't the right guy to help Indian cricket recover from the current situation and he feels Rohit Sharma will have to work hard on his fitness to ensure he can manage his workload well and take Indian cricket forward.

"Such off-field tensions hamper the performances of the team and that is exactly what has happened. Who was sitting with Kohli? Siraj, on the left. On his right, there were players who nobody knew. That picture stated it all. KL Rahul cannot handle the team, and it remains to be seen how Rohit Sharma maintains his fitness if he is to be the man to usher Indian cricket into the future," he added.

&nbsp;

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Indian cricket has undergone significant changes since the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 last year. While Ravi Shastri was replaced by Rahul Dravid as the new head coach, Virat Kohli is no more leading India in any format of the game.

Indian cricket has undergone significant changes since the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 last year. While Ravi Shastri was replaced by Rahul Dravid as the new head coach, Virat Kohli is no more leading India in any format of the game. Kohli had stepped down as T20I captain willingly last year before being sacked as the ODI captain. He decided to quit Test captaincy earlier this month which has further resulted in turmoil in Indian cricket. With the team suffering crushing defeats in both the Test and the ODI series against South Africa recently, questions have been raised on the side's morale and confidence going forward. Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has slammed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for not dealing with the situation properly. Latif believes BCCI president Sourav Ganguly had a role to play in Shastri's exit as head coach and that BCCI would not have let the former all-rounder continue in his role even if he wanted to after his contract expired. "All this began happening when Anil Kumble was wrongly removed as coach. Ravi Shastri had taken no coaching courses and yet he directly took entry as the coach. This was a strong group – Kumble had over 600 wickets and Sourav Ganguly and Rahul Dravid were his teammates. This trio is very strong," Latif said in a video on YouTube channel Caught Behind. Latif claimed Shastri was told by BCCI president Ganguly that there was no way he can get another extension as head coach and that it was time for him to go. Shastri had announced before the T20 World Cup 2021 that he will be leaving the India head coach post after the conclusion of the tournament last year. However, as per the former Pakistan captain, Ganguly had a role in his exit and such personal attacks have hurt Indian cricket in the last few months. "By all means, Ganguly told Shastri 'boss, it's time to go' even if Shastri had considered continuing as coach. This whole thing has been building up since before the T20 World Cup, these are personal attacks and it has impacted Indian cricket. What happened with Pakistan in the early 1990s is happening today with Indian cricket," Latif said. Also Read: Should Jasprit Bumrah succeed Virat Kohli as India's Test captain? Ex-head coach Ravi Shastri answers Latif believes KL Rahul isn't the right guy to help Indian cricket recover from the current situation and he feels Rohit Sharma will have to work hard on his fitness to ensure he can manage his workload well and take Indian cricket forward. "Such off-field tensions hamper the performances of the team and that is exactly what has happened. Who was sitting with Kohli? Siraj, on the left. On his right, there were players who nobody knew. That picture stated it all. KL Rahul cannot handle the team, and it remains to be seen how Rohit Sharma maintains his fitness if he is to be the man to usher Indian cricket into the future," he added.

Sourav Ganguly told Ravi Shastri 'boss it's time to go', personal attacks have hurt India: Ex-Pakistan captain

Virat Kohli dropped a shocker on Saturday (January 15) as he surprisingly announced that he is stepping down as the captain of the Indian Test team with immediate effect. Kohli's decision came just a day after India lost the three-match Test series against South Africa 2-1. The decision baffled many as Kohli was on his way to becoming one of the greatest Test leaders of all time.

Nonetheless, he signed off as India's most successful captain of all time in Tests with an impressive 40 wins in 68 matches as captain. Ever since Kohli's decision, there have been speculations surrounding BCCI's role in the entire saga with many blaming the board for playing a role in forcing Kohli out.

The speculations have arisen from the fact that it was not long ago that Kohli and the Indian cricket board had a public fallout over his sacking as ODI captain of the team. In an explosive press conference ahead of the South Africa tour in December last year, Kohli had openly contradicted BCCI president Sourav Ganguly's comments about his removal as ODI captain.

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BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, however, in his tweet, clarified that the decision to leave Test captaincy was entirely Kohli's call and that he had no pressure from the BCCI. Reacting to Kohli's move and Ganguly's tweet on it, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif made some bold claims.

Latif believes the real reason behind Kohli's decision to leave Test captaincy can be his tiff with the BCCI and board president Ganguly. The former Pakistan captain said it is a battle between the two stalwarts of Indian cricket.

"The real reason why these things happen is because you have a tiff with the board. Irrespective of what Virat says that it's his decision or what Sourav Ganguly tweets, this is battle of two stalwarts," Rashid Latif said in a video on his YouTube channel Caught Behind.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-was-tired-was-his-decision-alone-to-leave-test-captaincy-rohit-likely-to-take-over-report-445179">Virat Kohli was 'tired', was his decision alone to leave Test captaincy; Rohit likely to take over - Report</a>

You have unsettled Indian cricket: Rashid Latif slams BCCI

Former Pakistan captain Latif also slammed the BCCI for targeting Kohli unnecessarily since his decision to step down as the T20I captain of the team last year. Kohli had last year announced that he will not remain India's T20I skipper post the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 but had expressed his desire to continue leading the side in ODIs and Tests.

However, he was later removed as the ODI captain with the BCCI biggies reasoning that the selectors wanted to have one white-ball captain going forward. Latif criticised the Indian cricket board, accusing them of not just unsettling Kohli, one of the greatest in midern-day cricket but also Indian cricket.

"Some people are emotional. They know when and how to provoke Kohli. When he announced that he won't captain India in T20Is after the World Cup, he was removed as ODI captain as well. You haven't only unsettled Kohli; you've unsettled Indian cricket,"

Virat Kohli dropped a shocker on Saturday (January 15) as he surprisingly announced that he is stepping down as the captain of the Indian Test team with immediate effect.

Virat Kohli dropped a shocker on Saturday (January 15) as he surprisingly announced that he is stepping down as the captain of the Indian Test team with immediate effect. Kohli's decision came just a day after India lost the three-match Test series against South Africa 2-1. The decision baffled many as Kohli was on his way to becoming one of the greatest Test leaders of all time. Nonetheless, he signed off as India's most successful captain of all time in Tests with an impressive 40 wins in 68 matches as captain. Ever since Kohli's decision, there have been speculations surrounding BCCI's role in the entire saga with many blaming the board for playing a role in forcing Kohli out. The speculations have arisen from the fact that it was not long ago that Kohli and the Indian cricket board had a public fallout over his sacking as ODI captain of the team. In an explosive press conference ahead of the South Africa tour in December last year, Kohli had openly contradicted BCCI president Sourav Ganguly's comments about his removal as ODI captain. × BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, however, in his tweet, clarified that the decision to leave Test captaincy was entirely Kohli's call and that he had no pressure from the BCCI. Reacting to Kohli's move and Ganguly's tweet on it, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif made some bold claims. Latif believes the real reason behind Kohli's decision to leave Test captaincy can be his tiff with the BCCI and board president Ganguly. The former Pakistan captain said it is a battle between the two stalwarts of Indian cricket. "The real reason why these things happen is because you have a tiff with the board. Irrespective of what Virat says that it's his decision or what Sourav Ganguly tweets, this is battle of two stalwarts," Rashid Latif said in a video on his YouTube channel Caught Behind. Also Read: Virat Kohli was 'tired', was his decision alone to leave Test captaincy; Rohit likely to take over - Report You have unsettled Indian cricket: Rashid Latif slams BCCI Former Pakistan captain Latif also slammed the BCCI for targeting Kohli unnecessarily since his decision to step down as the T20I captain of the team last year. Kohli had last year announced that he will not remain India's T20I skipper post the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 but had expressed his desire to continue leading the side in ODIs and Tests. However, he was later removed as the ODI captain with the BCCI biggies reasoning that the selectors wanted to have one white-ball captain going forward. Latif criticised the Indian cricket board, accusing them of not just unsettling Kohli, one of the greatest in midern-day cricket but also Indian cricket. "Some people are emotional. They know when and how to provoke Kohli. When he announced that he won't captain India in T20Is after the World Cup, he was removed as ODI captain as well. You haven't only unsettled Kohli; you've unsettled Indian cricket,"

Irrespective of what Kohli says or what Ganguly tweets, it's battle of two stalwarts, says ex-Pakistan captain

Taking a dig at Indian cricket team fans, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has said Indians will now say they don't have players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan in their team. Latif lauded the Pakistani opening duo for their batting heroics in T20Is this year and hailed them for their remarkable consistency.

Babar and Rizwan displayed sensational form throughout the year and dominated the proceedings in T20Is. The duo produced several memorable match-winning partnerships for Pakistan and broke a number of records with their batting exploits in the shortest format of the game.&nbsp;

While Rizwan is the top run-getter in T20Is in 2021 with 1326 runs to his name, Babar is at the second spot having amassed 939 runs in T20Is this year. The duo was also in terrific form in the T20 World Cup 2021 where they helped the Men in Green reach the semi-finals.

Hailing Babar and Rizwan for their brilliant consistency, Latif took a dig at Indian fans during a show on Pakistani news channel&nbsp;PTV Sports&nbsp;and said - "About a year ago, we used to say that Pakistan doesn’t have players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma or KL Rahul, especially in T20 cricket. But I think, after some time, Indians will also say that we don’t have players like Rizwan and Babar.”

Babar and Rizwan are the only players to have crossed the 900-run mark in T20Is this year and have been sensational as an opening duo for Pakistan. Rizwan had recently become the first batsman in the world to notch up 2000 runs in a calendar year in T20 cricket. 1326 of those came in T20 internationals for Pakistan, including twelve half-centuries and a hundred.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-like-virat-kohlis-attitude-but-he-fights-a-lot-says-bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-amid-captaincy-row-438107">I like Virat Kohli's attitude but he fights a lot, says BCCI president Sourav Ganguly amid captaincy row</a>

Despite being consistent performers for their team in T20Is, Babar and Rizwan have often been criticised for their moderate strike rate. However, Latif believes the duo has made up for their strike rate by pacing their innings perfectly.

"Earlier, we also had our reservations about their scoring rate, but they made up for it by pacing their innings perfectly," said the former Pakistan captain.

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Taking a dig at Indian cricket team fans, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has said Indians will now say they don't have players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan in their team.

Taking a dig at Indian cricket team fans, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has said Indians will now say they don't have players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan in their team. Latif lauded the Pakistani opening duo for their batting heroics in T20Is this year and hailed them for their remarkable consistency. Babar and Rizwan displayed sensational form throughout the year and dominated the proceedings in T20Is. The duo produced several memorable match-winning partnerships for Pakistan and broke a number of records with their batting exploits in the shortest format of the game. While Rizwan is the top run-getter in T20Is in 2021 with 1326 runs to his name, Babar is at the second spot having amassed 939 runs in T20Is this year. The duo was also in terrific form in the T20 World Cup 2021 where they helped the Men in Green reach the semi-finals. Hailing Babar and Rizwan for their brilliant consistency, Latif took a dig at Indian fans during a show on Pakistani news channel PTV Sports and said - "About a year ago, we used to say that Pakistan doesn’t have players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma or KL Rahul, especially in T20 cricket. But I think, after some time, Indians will also say that we don’t have players like Rizwan and Babar.” Babar and Rizwan are the only players to have crossed the 900-run mark in T20Is this year and have been sensational as an opening duo for Pakistan. Rizwan had recently become the first batsman in the world to notch up 2000 runs in a calendar year in T20 cricket. 1326 of those came in T20 internationals for Pakistan, including twelve half-centuries and a hundred. Also Read: I like Virat Kohli's attitude but he fights a lot, says BCCI president Sourav Ganguly amid captaincy row Despite being consistent performers for their team in T20Is, Babar and Rizwan have often been criticised for their moderate strike rate. However, Latif believes the duo has made up for their strike rate by pacing their innings perfectly. "Earlier, we also had our reservations about their scoring rate, but they made up for it by pacing their innings perfectly," said the former Pakistan captain.

We used to say Pakistan don't have Kohli, Rohit. Now India will say we don't have Babar, Rizwan: Rashid Latif

India and Afghanistan locked horns with each other on Wednesday (November 3) in match 33 of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. In what was a must-win game for Team India, Virat Kohli &amp; Co. thrashed Mohammad Nabi-led Afghan line-up by 66 runs at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi.

Being asked to bat first, India rode on scintillating half-centuries from openers Rohit Sharma (74) and KL Rahul (69) as they posted 210-2 and, later, restricted Afghanistan to 144-7, courtesy Mohammed Shami's 3-fer and R Ashwin's 2 for 14. With this win, India remain alive in the semi-finals race, however, they need to win their remaining two games convincingly and also hope for other results to favour them in order to enter the last four.

Despite Team India's clinical performance, some Pakistani fans accused BCCI of fixing the India-Afghanistan tie. Moreover, the toss controversy erupted as a video surfaced where Nabi told Kohli that his side will bowl first on winning the toss, just a few moments before the coin toss.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-kl-rahul-or-pant-sehwag-suggests-who-should-be-indias-next-t20i-captain-after-virat-kohli-426929">Rohit, KL Rahul or Pant? Sehwag suggests who should be India's next T20I captain after Virat Kohli</a>

Former cricketers David Gower and Rashid Latif have now given an explanation, putting the conspiracy theories to bed. "To me, there's nothing to worry about," said Gower on&nbsp;Game on Hai&nbsp;show at&nbsp;PTV Sports, where he had other panelists in Rashid Latif and Umar Gul. "These things can become serious very quickly if you let them. But I am not the only person with an opinion in this room, I know that," he added.&nbsp;

To this, former Pakistan captain Latif asked Gul, "What did you see?" Gul said, "I think Nabi said we will bowl first. Latif&nbsp;then explained, "When a toss takes place between two captains, one captain tells the other what he wants to do," explained Latif. "So Nabi told Kohli 'we will bowl first'. However, later you have to say the same thing officially, so he repeated it."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/players-plays-the-game-religion-doesnt-former-pak-spinner-slams-trolls-for-targetting-shami-virat-kohli-426908">Players plays the game, religion doesn't: Former Pak spinner slams trolls for targetting Shami, Virat Kohli</a>

Talking about Kohli-led India, they need to win both their remaining games by huge margins -- versus Scotland and Namibia -- and hope for Afghanistan to beat New Zealand by a slender margin. The 2016 semi-finalists are already on the brink of an early elimination and need luck as well as some clinical performances to get their campaign back on track.

India and Afghanistan locked horns with each other on Wednesday (November 3) in match 33 of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. In what was a must-win game for Team India, Virat Kohli & Co.

India and Afghanistan locked horns with each other on Wednesday (November 3) in match 33 of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. In what was a must-win game for Team India, Virat Kohli & Co. thrashed Mohammad Nabi-led Afghan line-up by 66 runs at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi. Being asked to bat first, India rode on scintillating half-centuries from openers Rohit Sharma (74) and KL Rahul (69) as they posted 210-2 and, later, restricted Afghanistan to 144-7, courtesy Mohammed Shami's 3-fer and R Ashwin's 2 for 14. With this win, India remain alive in the semi-finals race, however, they need to win their remaining two games convincingly and also hope for other results to favour them in order to enter the last four. Despite Team India's clinical performance, some Pakistani fans accused BCCI of fixing the India-Afghanistan tie. Moreover, the toss controversy erupted as a video surfaced where Nabi told Kohli that his side will bowl first on winning the toss, just a few moments before the coin toss. ALSO READ | Rohit, KL Rahul or Pant? Sehwag suggests who should be India's next T20I captain after Virat Kohli Former cricketers David Gower and Rashid Latif have now given an explanation, putting the conspiracy theories to bed. "To me, there's nothing to worry about," said Gower on Game on Hai show at PTV Sports, where he had other panelists in Rashid Latif and Umar Gul. "These things can become serious very quickly if you let them. But I am not the only person with an opinion in this room, I know that," he added. To this, former Pakistan captain Latif asked Gul, "What did you see?" Gul said, "I think Nabi said we will bowl first. Latif then explained, "When a toss takes place between two captains, one captain tells the other what he wants to do," explained Latif. "So Nabi told Kohli 'we will bowl first'. However, later you have to say the same thing officially, so he repeated it." ALSO READ | Players plays the game, religion doesn't: Former Pak spinner slams trolls for targetting Shami, Virat Kohli Talking about Kohli-led India, they need to win both their remaining games by huge margins -- versus Scotland and Namibia -- and hope for Afghanistan to beat New Zealand by a slender margin. The 2016 semi-finalists are already on the brink of an early elimination and need luck as well as some clinical performances to get their campaign back on track.

David Gower, Rashid Latif shun claims after India-Afg toss controversy leads to fixing conspiracy at T20 WC

The whole cricketing fraternity is hooked onto the IPL 2021 edition at present. However, they are also eagerly waiting for the commencement of the forthcoming T20 World Cup, which will start soon after IPL 14's second and final leg -- i.e. on October 17.

The upcoming seventh edition was set to be held in Australia last year, however, the Covid-19 pandemic led to the tournament's postponement. This time around, the marquee event will be held in the UAE with as many as 16 teams participating in the showpiece tournament. Ahead of the T20 WC, former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Rashid Latif named his tournament-favourites and also opened up on Babar Azam-led Men in Green's chances.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-think-india-can-compete-with-pakistan-thats-why-they-dont-want-to-play-against-us-abdul-razzaq-418367">Don't think India can compete with Pakistan, that's why they don't want to play against us: Abdul Razzaq</a>

In an interview with PTI, Latif said: “India and England appear to be the most balanced sides in the tournament, while West Indies always remain a dangerous side." He further added, "I wouldn't write Pakistan off as if they click they could gain momentum and surprise many people."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/housefull-tickets-sold-out-for-india-pakistan-t20-world-cup-tie-as-marquee-clash-nears-418228">HOUSEFULL! Tickets sold out for India-Pakistan T20 World Cup tie as marquee clash nears</a>

In the last edition of the T20 WC, held in India, Daren Sammy-led West Indies had emerged on top to clinch their second title. Apart from the Windies, India, Pakistan, England and Sri Lanka have also tasted success once in the earlier editions.&nbsp;

The qualifying round of the T20 WC will start from October 17 whereas the main draw of the event will kick off from October 23. For the unversed, Australia, South Africa, England and West Indies are in Pool A whereas India, Pakistan, New Zealand and Afghanistan are placed in Pool B. Two teams, each, will join both the groups from the qualifiers.

The whole cricketing fraternity is hooked onto the IPL 2021 edition at present. However, they are also eagerly waiting for the commencement of the forthcoming T20 World Cup, which will start soon after IPL 14's second and final leg -- i.

The whole cricketing fraternity is hooked onto the IPL 2021 edition at present. However, they are also eagerly waiting for the commencement of the forthcoming T20 World Cup, which will start soon after IPL 14's second and final leg -- i.e. on October 17. The upcoming seventh edition was set to be held in Australia last year, however, the Covid-19 pandemic led to the tournament's postponement. This time around, the marquee event will be held in the UAE with as many as 16 teams participating in the showpiece tournament. Ahead of the T20 WC, former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Rashid Latif named his tournament-favourites and also opened up on Babar Azam-led Men in Green's chances. ALSO READ | Don't think India can compete with Pakistan, that's why they don't want to play against us: Abdul Razzaq In an interview with PTI, Latif said: “India and England appear to be the most balanced sides in the tournament, while West Indies always remain a dangerous side." He further added, "I wouldn't write Pakistan off as if they click they could gain momentum and surprise many people." ALSO READ | HOUSEFULL! Tickets sold out for India-Pakistan T20 World Cup tie as marquee clash nears In the last edition of the T20 WC, held in India, Daren Sammy-led West Indies had emerged on top to clinch their second title. Apart from the Windies, India, Pakistan, England and Sri Lanka have also tasted success once in the earlier editions. The qualifying round of the T20 WC will start from October 17 whereas the main draw of the event will kick off from October 23. For the unversed, Australia, South Africa, England and West Indies are in Pool A whereas India, Pakistan, New Zealand and Afghanistan are placed in Pool B. Two teams, each, will join both the groups from the qualifiers.

India and England most balanced: Former Pakistan captain names favourites for T20 World Cup 2021

Former Pakistan wicket-keeper and captain Rashid Latif, who has been pretty vocal against spot-fixing, has said cricket boards have always supported players accused of fixing while adding that players are mere pawns in the big game and are being utilized by the top board members. Latif further said the board has a larger role to play in fixing.&nbsp;

While it is unclear whether Latif’s comments were directed towards Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) as they are in the headlines due to the ongoing Umar Akmal controversy. The PCB had charged Akmal with two breaches of Article 2.4.4 of the PCB Anti-Corruption Code in two unrelated incidents while suspending him before the start of Pakistan Super League.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wont-let-anyone-suffer-in-tough-times-bcci-clears-dues-of-contracted-players-without-any-pay-cut-291799" hreflang="en">'Won't let anyone suffer in tough times' - BCCI clears dues of contracted players without any pay cut</a>

“The cricket boards have always given support to players accused of fixing. We always blame the players. Yes, they are involved in fixing. But are cricket authorities not to be blamed as well,” Rashid Latif said in a video on a Youtube channel ‘Caught Behind’.

Latif went on to claim that ICC’s Anti-Corruption Unit ask the players to stay away from bookies but don’t take any concrete steps to stop it.

“I won’t completely blame a player for fixing. Players are just pawns, they are being utilised by the top board members. The board has a larger role to play in fixing,” he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-might-have-been-a-factor-for-some-pat-cummins-reverts-to-michael-clarkes-claims-of-australia-being-scared-to-sledge-virat-kohli-291777" hreflang="en">'It might have been a factor for some' - Pat Cummins reverts to Michael Clarke's claims of Australia being 'scared' to sledge Virat Kohli</a>

The former Pakistan international said if no board member is involved then they will always punish the guilty player but added that some members of the board who have been placed due to political influence are involved.

“If no member from the board is involved, then they will always punish a player. But the top officials of the boards, or some members of the boards who have been placed by political contacts, are somewhere involved, and hence, players always get protected,” he added.

“Every cricket board all over the world, have protected their players. Every country has protected their players who were found fixing matches. This is why the window of T20 cricket and franchise cricket had to be created to tell players that do whatever you want to do here, don’t do it in international cricket,” Latif went on to add.

Former Pakistan wicket-keeper and captain Rashid Latif, who has been pretty vocal against spot-fixing, has said cricket boards have always supported players accused of fixing while adding that players are mere pawns in the big game and are being utilized by the top board members.

Former Pakistan wicket-keeper and captain Rashid Latif, who has been pretty vocal against spot-fixing, has said cricket boards have always supported players accused of fixing while adding that players are mere pawns in the big game and are being utilized by the top board members. Latif further said the board has a larger role to play in fixing. While it is unclear whether Latif’s comments were directed towards Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) as they are in the headlines due to the ongoing Umar Akmal controversy. The PCB had charged Akmal with two breaches of Article 2.4.4 of the PCB Anti-Corruption Code in two unrelated incidents while suspending him before the start of Pakistan Super League. ALSO READ: 'Won't let anyone suffer in tough times' - BCCI clears dues of contracted players without any pay cut “The cricket boards have always given support to players accused of fixing. We always blame the players. Yes, they are involved in fixing. But are cricket authorities not to be blamed as well,” Rashid Latif said in a video on a Youtube channel ‘Caught Behind’. Latif went on to claim that ICC’s Anti-Corruption Unit ask the players to stay away from bookies but don’t take any concrete steps to stop it. “I won’t completely blame a player for fixing. Players are just pawns, they are being utilised by the top board members. The board has a larger role to play in fixing,” he said. ALSO READ: 'It might have been a factor for some' - Pat Cummins reverts to Michael Clarke's claims of Australia being 'scared' to sledge Virat Kohli The former Pakistan international said if no board member is involved then they will always punish the guilty player but added that some members of the board who have been placed due to political influence are involved. “If no member from the board is involved, then they will always punish a player. But the top officials of the boards, or some members of the boards who have been placed by political contacts, are somewhere involved, and hence, players always get protected,” he added. “Every cricket board all over the world, have protected their players. Every country has protected their players who were found fixing matches. This is why the window of T20 cricket and franchise cricket had to be created to tell players that do whatever you want to do here, don’t do it in international cricket,” Latif went on to add.

‘Players are just pawns’ - Former Pakistan skipper Rashid Latif says board members may be involved in fixing

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