Pakistan should focus solely on playing attacking cricket: Rashid Latif

The upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 will be the first time Pakistan will be hosting an ICC tournament in 29 years. The 50-over spectacle is scheduled to commence on February 19. Matches will be played in venues across Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates.   

Former Pakistani wicketkeeper, Rashid Latif, expressed gratitude for Pakistan to be granted an opportunity to co-host a coveted tournament. Amidst all the political chaos involving the Board of Control for Cricket in India and their tussle with the Pakistan Cricket Board, he suggested the Pakistani unit focus on an aggressive brand of cricket. 

“These are exciting times for a cricket-crazy nation. The world’s top teams will be participating in this mega event. I commend the efforts of the Pakistan government and the Pakistan Cricket Board for their relentless lobbying with the International Cricket Council, ensuring that Pakistan gets the opportunity to host this tournament. India will play their matches in the UAE, and that is their business; Pakistan should focus solely on playing attacking cricket," stated Latif, as quoted by Dawn. 

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Confident that our players will seize the opportunity to play in home conditions: Latif

The ex-cricketer evaluated the spin-bowling department and shared that he saw quite a lot of promise in them. However, Latif commented that the key would be to filter out the best combination for the team as far as the opening slots are concerned.

“I am confident that our players will seize the opportunity to play in home conditions. We have quality spinners like mystery bowler Abrar Ahmed, Sufiyan Muqeem, and Faisal Akram. Additionally, Salman Ali Agha is a valuable asset. I am worried about Saim Ayub’s injury, and with Abdullah Shafique also out of form, we are left in a bit of a dilemma. While all of these players are talented, finding the right combination could be a challenge. I am unsure what the selectors are thinking, but perhaps they will opt for Fakhar and Shan Masood as the opening pair. We’ll have to wait and see," remarked Latif.

He further labelled India to be a "strong team", but opined Australia, England, New Zealand, and South Africa as more of a challenge for Pakistan.