Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif yesterday informed the media that Bangladesh would achieve greater heights in cricket in the future. The former Pakistan wicket-keeper, who is currently working as the brand ambassador to the Pakistan disabled cricket team, said he was always aware of Bangladesh’s potential, given the facilities available in the country.
“I visited Bangladesh in May, 2009, to complete my level-three coaching course. Looking into the facilities in the National Cricket Academy, I understood Bangladesh will progress rapidly into a world-class side if they work on the right track,” said Latif at BKSP.
“They defeated England in the [2015 ICC] World Cup and later whitewashed Pakistan. They also defeated India and South Africa. They are playing scintillating cricket at the moment and have developed as an attacking side. They now know their aim I believe. I can say one thing right away; Bangladesh will develop remarkably. I will ask the Bangladesh Cricket Board to give more importance to the age-level sides. I want to see more attacking cricketers in the Bangladesh team and wish them luck for the series against Australia [in October],” added Latif, who is scheduled to leave Dhaka today.
The former Pakistan right-handed batsman has always been vocal against corruption in cricket. There has been ample occasions when Latif stood up against the wrong-doers in the game and is still doing the same. Latif credited the International Cricket Council for their effort against match- and spot-fixing.
“ICC has been very cautious and strict against corruption. They are trying hard to eliminate this thing from cricket. They have punished a few cricketers over the past few years, which include cricketers from Pakistan too. This is helping in reducing the wrongdoings,” said Latif.
In 2010, former Pakistan cricketers Salman Butt, Mohammad Aamer and Mohammad Asif were found to be involved with match-fixing during Pakistan’s tour of England. The trio were later banned in November, 2011, after evidences of fixing emerged. At the moment, the three cricketers are waiting to get back to domestic action.
Latif stated that the three cricketers have the right to return to domestic cricket but not internationals. Latif believes the cricketers should not be allowed in the international arena due to ethical reasons.
“It is their right to play in domestic cricket but I don’t support in bringing them back to international circuit. I think playing international cricket will only make it hard for them and at the same time hamper Pakistan Cricket Board’s image,” Latif explained.
“Look at what Bangladesh did. [Mohammad] Ashraful is getting punished for what he did. I think these kind of players should not be allowed in international cricket,” he added.
Latif further informed that his association with disable cricket will continue and that he will be available for them 24 hours a day.
“Cricket is a beautiful game and its getting better with the association of the disable cricketers. There are many talented cricketers in all the teams and they should be supported well. I want all the cricket boards to support the disable teams. It is our duty to support them,” said the 46-year-old.
