Pakistan cricket team players celebrate a wicket during a T20 World Cup 2024 match.
Photo : Pakistan Cricket – X
Rashid Latif, former Pakistan skipper has expressed deep frustration with the team’s recent performances. The 55-year-old was candid in his assessment of Pakistan cricket during a recent YouTube podcast, where he pointed out that the squad needs improvements in various areas to overcome their current slump. Latif emphasized that only technically proficient experts can help Pakistan cricket regain its form.
The Men in Green delievered lackluster performance in the T20 World Cup 2024 under the leadership of Babar Azam. The team were knocked out of the tournament after defeats to India and the USA in the opening round. Additionally, they were beaten by Bangladesh 2-0 in a home Test series, held at home with Shan Masood at the helm.
Latif said that Pakistan cricket is currently in a critical state, requiring professional expertise to revive it. It needs technically skilled individuals to manage operations effectively, both physically and financially. Trainers and various other resources are necessary, as there are numerous issues both on and off the field.
“Pakistan cricket is currently in the ICU. They will need a professional doctor. They need technically sound professionals to run things, both physically and financially. Trainers and many other things are required. You can see there are many problems, whether it’s on the field or off the field,” he told. (via NDTV)
The ex wicket-keeper batter also analyzed Babar Azam’s recent performances as the captain of Pakistan’s white-ball teams. The former cricketer suggested that Babar should resign from the captaincy to concentrate more on his batting. To illustrate his point, Latif referenced Sachin Tendulkar, who had stepped back from a leadership position to focus on his own game.
“We need to remember that he (Babar) was removed forcefully as captain. When the mind is not functioning correctly, it affects the nerves as well. You try to play hard on every ball. He should let go of the idea of being a captain and focus on freeing himself from mental pressure,” Rashid Latif explained.“The issue seems to be more about mental stress than technical performance, and it’s apparent that he is struggling to cope with a significant amount of mental pressure,” he added.
