‘Operation clean-up’ likely after next six weeks: Latif

Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Rashid Latif is not satisfied with Men in Green’s performance, with the 2019 International Cricket Council (ICC) World Cup in England and Wales just around the corner.

While sharing his thoughts during a YouTube channel show, Latif said that he is now having second thoughts about backing Pakistan team ahead of mega event.  

“I think there is a going to be an operation clean-up after the next six weeks, after looking at the team’s performance against Afghanistan,” Latif said while making a tongue in cheek comment. “I feel like I made a wrong call by backing the team all along.”  

Speaking about Pakistan team’s shocking loss against Afghanistan, during their first warm-up game, Latif was disappointed with the way batsmen threw away their wickets.

“Afghanistan bowlers did not bowl that well because Pakistan batsmen got out due to their wrong approach,” he said. “Most of them got dismissed on deliveries which kept straight, which was disappointing to see.”  

The former Pakistan captain also criticised the way Pakistan bowlers bowled during the match.

“Pakistan bowlers were guilty of bowling short in the match against Afghanistan,” he said. “It is important to note that when you are bowling to hard-hitters, a bowler is better off adopting a fuller line and length so that ball travels for a longer duration in the air which, hence, increases chances of swing.”

The 50-year-old also lashed out at captain Sarfaraz Ahmed for batting lower down the order, instead of the ideal number four position.   

“I have said time and again that Sarfaraz Ahmed should bat at number four position in the batting order but he is still keen on batting lower down the order,” he said. “This attitude from the Pakistan captain is costing Pakistan.”

 The 2019 World Cup will begin on May 30, with the first match between England and South Africa.