Cricket

Pakistan's disappointing T20 World Cup performance has prompted former captain Rashid Latif to issue an ultimatum to star batters Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan. Latif believes that both players must adapt their batting approach or face being dropped from the team.Latif criticized Babar's decision to accept the captaincy again after resigning last year. He believes that the added responsibility has weakened Babar's batting and that he should focus solely on his role as a batsman."Babar Azam's biggest mistake was to accept the captaincy again," Latif said. "He shouldn't get involved in this politics. Pakistan has found a great batsman after so many years who is dominating the world."Latif also urged Babar and Rizwan to emulate the example of Indian veterans Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who recently announced their retirement from T20Is."Rohit has changed himself 190 degrees," Latif said. "His IPL strike rate used to be 130-140, but this year it went up to 160. He changed himself. Virat Kohli did the same thing. If these two batsmen can change, then anyone can."Latif gave Babar and Rizwan a five-match ultimatum to improve their batting approach. If they fail to do so, he believes they should be dropped from the team."I would give Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan 5 matches to change their batting approach in T20Is, and if they won't, then there should be no place in the team for them," Latif said.Latif's comments highlight the growing pressure on Babar and Rizwan to perform. Pakistan's recent T20 World Cup exit has raised questions about the team's direction and the role of its star players.

Pakistan's disappointing exit from the T20 World Cup has sparked a flurry of speculation and conspiracy theories. Former captain Rashid Latif has pointed the finger at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), alleging that it has failed to address match-fixing allegations.Latif's comments come amid rumors of spot-fixing circulating on social media. He has criticized the PCB for its silence on the matter, despite its swift response to an incident involving pacer Haris Rauf.Rauf was confronted by a man on the streets of Miami, Florida, who allegedly made derogatory remarks. Rauf reacted angrily and chased the man, but was restrained by bystanders. The PCB has threatened legal action against the man if he does not apologize.Latif has questioned the PCB's priorities, suggesting that it is more concerned with protecting itself than investigating match-fixing allegations. He has also highlighted the financial losses incurred by broadcasters due to Pakistan's early elimination."Pakistan's exclusion from the World Cup has caused the biggest loss to our electronic media," Latif wrote. "Those who have the broadcast rights to show the match are expected to lose 30% to 35%. The ratings of the channels are also surprisingly low."Pakistan's poor performance in the ODI World Cup 2023 and the 2024 T20 World Cup has raised questions about the leadership of Babar Azam. The team's unexpected loss to debutants USA and subsequent defeat to India proved to be their undoing.Despite winning their last two encounters, Pakistan's fate was sealed by their earlier losses. The team's exit has sparked a wave of criticism and calls for accountability.

Pakistan's disappointing exit from the T20 World Cup has sparked a wave of criticism, with former captain Rashid Latif pointing the finger at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Latif believes that the constant changes in leadership and coaching staff have created an unstable environment within the team, leading to a lack of unity and poor performance.Latif highlighted that the team's attitude has changed since the previous World Cups, suggesting that the players are no longer as united as they once were. He attributed this to the lack of proper leadership and guidance from the PCB."The manner in which the dressing room feels and behaves is always the deciding factor," Latif said. "When there is a change in the higher authority/management, the coaching staff changes as well. It shouldn't be like that, the dressing room should remain stable."Latif's comments echo those of Pakistan coach Gary Kirsten, who recently stated that there is a lack of unity within the team. Kirsten described the situation as "unprecedented" and said that he had never seen anything like it in his coaching career.The PCB has been under fire for its handling of the team, with many critics calling for a complete overhaul of the organization. Latif believes that the PCB needs to take a more proactive approach in fostering a positive and supportive environment for the players."Education plays an important part that who is your chairman, who is he talking to," Latif said. "All the cricket boards, especially the Test playing nations have prepared well for the T20 World Cup, except Pakistan."Pakistan's early exit from the World Cup has raised serious questions about the future of the team. Latif believes that the PCB needs to address the underlying issues within the organization and create a stable environment for the players to thrive.

Pakistan's disappointing exit from the T20 World Cup has sparked widespread criticism and calls for action from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Reports indicate that the board is considering drastic measures, including sacking up to nine players from the current squad.PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi has hinted at a "major surgery" within the team, suggesting that the board may need to "look beyond" the current players. This follows Pakistan's humiliating defeat to India, which exposed glaring weaknesses in the team's performance.However, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has defended the players, arguing that the PCB shares equal responsibility for the debacle. He has called for the sacking of all PCB members and the governing body, accusing them of selecting the wrong players and failing to provide adequate training and support.Latif's comments echo concerns raised by many Pakistani cricket fans, who believe that the PCB has mismanaged the team and failed to address long-standing issues. Last year, the PCB announced significant increases in player earnings, but this has not translated into improved performances on the field.PCB chief Naqvi had also promised a bonus payment of USD 100,000 to each player if they won the tournament. However, this incentive has failed to motivate the team, which has struggled to find consistency and cohesion.The PCB is now facing pressure to take decisive action to address the team's poor performance. The board is expected to review the central contracts of the players and potentially reduce their salaries. It is also considering appointing a new selection committee and coaching staff.The future of Pakistan cricket hangs in the balance as the PCB grapples with the fallout from the T20 World Cup debacle. The board must now make tough decisions to rebuild the team and restore its former glory.

Afghanistan-Pakistan Rivalry: Intensity Surpasses India-Pakistan MatchesFormer India all-rounder Ajay Jadeja, who served as Afghanistan's mentor during the 2023 ODI World Cup, has revealed that the intensity between Afghanistan and Pakistan during matches is significantly higher than that of India and Pakistan.Jadeja recalled Afghanistan's historic eight-wicket victory over Pakistan in the World Cup, describing the winning team's behavior as "bin piye sharaabi" (intoxicated without alcohol). Afghanistan chased down a target of 283 runs in 49 overs, securing their first-ever ODI win against Pakistan."That day, I witnessed players getting high without consuming alcohol," Jadeja said on Caught Behind.Jadeja's appointment as Afghanistan's mentor coincided with the team's historic victory. Ibrahim Zadran was named Player of the Match for his 87-run knock off 113 balls."When friends asked me how I felt, I told them to multiply the intensity of an India-Pakistan match by 10. Everyone is surprised when they hear this," Jadeja added.Former Pakistan player Rashid Latif echoed Jadeja's sentiments, recalling a similar experience when he coached Afghanistan at the 2023 Asian Games. "After Afghanistan's victory over Pakistan, I also saw players getting high without alcohol," Latif said.In the Asian Games semi-finals, Afghanistan defeated Pakistan by four wickets, chasing down a target of 116 runs with 13 balls to spare.In the ongoing T20 World Cup, Afghanistan is placed in Group C alongside West Indies, Uganda, Papua New Guinea, and New Zealand. Pakistan, meanwhile, is in Group A with India, Ireland, Canada, and the United States.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has expressed concerns about Babar Azam's leadership abilities and Pakistan's preparedness for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Latif believes that Azam lacks the experience and composure to handle the pressure of high-stakes matches, particularly against India.Latif also highlighted India's superior bowling attack, led by Kuldeep Yadav, as a key factor in their favor. He pointed out that Pakistan's bowling unit has been weakened by injuries and fitness issues, leaving them vulnerable in the middle overs.Latif criticized the timing of Gary Kirsten's appointment as Pakistan's head coach, arguing that he has not had enough time to build a rapport with the players. He also expressed admiration for Virat Kohli's popularity and his ability to inspire his teammates.Latif emphasized that Azam's growth as a captain depends on having a stronger supporting cast. He noted that Azam often lacks the support of his teammates, unlike Kohli, who has a more experienced and talented squad around him.Latif's comments raise questions about Pakistan's chances in the T20 World Cup. While they have a talented team, their lack of preparation and leadership concerns could hinder their progress. India, on the other hand, appears to be a more balanced and confident unit, making them the favorites in the upcoming clash between the two arch-rivals.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has extended his support to under-fire wicketkeeper-batter Azam Khan, who has faced relentless online trolling for his weight and recent poor performances.Azam, the son of former Pakistan wicketkeeper Moin Khan, has been subjected to body shaming and derogatory remarks on social media. Latif, however, has condemned the online abuse and defended Azam's abilities."He is under immense pressure. He is being body shamed, is being trolled. Azam is an exceptional batsman in T20s. He is a clean hitter, plays spinners well, and has worked on his game against the pacers," Latif told The Indian Express.Latif acknowledged Azam's limitations as a wicketkeeper, attributing it to his lack of experience rather than his fitness. He suggested that Mohammad Haris would have been a more suitable choice as a third wicketkeeper."I will not blame the player. Mohammad Haris is fit, more agile and in good form. If you wanted a third ‘keeper, he should have been the ideal choice," Latif said.Latif expressed concern over the prevalence of body shaming in society, emphasizing that Azam's physical appearance should not be a subject of ridicule."We live in a racist society. If someone’s skin colour is black, we call them kaalu. If someone is fair, we call them gora. If someone is tall he is a lambu, if someone is skinny he is a patlu. I feel bad for the kid, he is only 25. He doesn’t deserve to be trolled like this," Latif added.Azam's recent performances have been disappointing, with a string of low scores in international matches. He has also dropped several catches behind the stumps. Pakistan lost the 4-game T20I series against England 2-0 before the T20 World Cup.Despite his struggles, Latif believes that Azam has the potential to be a valuable asset to the Pakistan team. He urged the public to support Azam and provide him with the confidence he needs to succeed.

Pakistan cricket has once again found itself embroiled in controversy, this time involving a private dinner hosted by the national team. Former captain Rashid Latif has expressed outrage over the event, which allowed fans to meet players for a fee of $25.Latif, speaking on a talk show, condemned the dinner as "terrible" and a violation of the team's professional conduct. He questioned the players' motives, suggesting that they were more interested in financial gain than representing their country."Who can do this? It's terrible. That means you met our players in 25 dollars," Latif said. "God forbid, had there been a mess, people would have said boys are earning money."The host of the show, Kamran Muzaffer, echoed Latif's sentiments, emphasizing that such events are inappropriate for players on national duty. Pakistani television personality Nauman Niaz also criticized the team, calling it a "sad state of affairs."Latif further alleged that Pakistan players have become accustomed to asking for money in exchange for appearances. "People tell me that whoever calls the Pakistan players, they just ask, 'how much money will you give?' This has become common," he said.The controversy comes at a crucial time for Pakistan, which is set to face archrivals India in the T20 World Cup on Sunday. Latif urged the players to exercise caution and avoid such distractions."The amount of 25 dollars shouldn't be blatantly used like this," he said. "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."The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has not yet commented on the controversy. However, the incident has raised questions about the team's professionalism and focus ahead of the high-stakes match against India.

Former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif has raised concerns over India's potential decision to boycott the Champions Trophy in Pakistan next year. He believes that refusing to participate in an ICC event could have severe consequences for the Indian team.Latif emphasized that teams are obligated to fulfill their commitments to ICC events, as they are aware of the tournament schedule and venues when signing contracts. He cited the example of the 1996 World Cup, where Australia and West Indies' refusal to travel to Sri Lanka resulted in a significant change in the tournament format and Sri Lanka's eventual victory."If India or Pakistan has signed in, they will have to go for that event," Latif said. "If any circumstances occur on a government level, then you have to provide a logical answer as to why not coming."Sources have indicated that Team India may not participate in the Champions Trophy in Pakistan due to security concerns. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has proposed a hybrid model, with India's qualifying round matches being held in a single city. However, Latif believes that refusing an ICC event could backfire on India."In my opinion, refusing an ICC event can backfire," he said. "You can refuse the bilateral series citing the conditions in Pakistan are not right etc etc... But it will be tough to refuse ICC events."The PCB has selected Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Lahore as the tournament venues, with Lahore hosting the final match. The ICC is expected to make a decision on the venue and format of the Champions Trophy in the coming weeks.