Rashid Latif Apologizes for Comparing Rashid Khan to Wasim Akram

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif controversially claimed Rashid Khan is “greater” than Wasim Akram due to Khan’s impact in cricket. He later apologized for the statement. Afghanistan looks to build on recent successes in the Champions Trophy, although they will miss spinner AM Ghazanfar due to injury.

Former Pakistan cricket captain Rashid Latif recently stirred controversy by claiming that Rashid Khan, the prominent Afghan bowler, is “greater” than legendary Pakistani fast bowler Wasim Akram. Latif based this bold assertion on Khan’s significant impact on Afghanistan’s cricketing stature, highlighting his role in elevating the team’s status on the global stage, especially in limited-overs formats, where he holds the record for most wickets in T20s.

In his remarks on the talk show “Hasna Mana Hai” aired on Geo News, Latif stated, “Rashid has brought Afghanistan on the map, he has helped them get recognition. I am sorry to say but Rashid’s stature is bigger.” Following the backlash of his statements, Latif expressed remorse, acknowledging the weight of his previous comments.

Rashid Latif also offered advice to Khan, suggesting that he should focus on improving Afghanistan’s Test cricket capabilities, especially concerning matches against Pakistan. Khan has represented Afghanistan in 213 International matches since his debut in 2015 and is regarded as one of the best in T20 cricket.

As Afghanistan prepares for the upcoming Champions Trophy, they aim to build on their recent successes in major tournaments, highlighted by a remarkable performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup and their first semifinal appearance in the 2022 T20 World Cup. Their campaign will commence against South Africa in Karachi on February 21.

Nonetheless, Afghanistan has encountered a setback with the news that spinner AM Ghazanfar will miss the Champions Trophy due to a lower back fracture sustained during a tour in Zimbabwe. The Afghanistan Cricket Board announced this injury, which will leave Ghazanfar unavailable for at least four months as he undergoes treatment.

The Afghanistan squad for the Champions Trophy includes notable players such as Hashmatullah Shahidi (captain), Rashid Khan, and Mohammad Nabi, among others. As they prepare for their matches, the team aims to replicate or surpass their previous achievements on the international stage.

In summary, Rashid Latif’s controversial claim about Rashid Khan being greater than Wasim Akram has sparked significant discussion. Latif recognized Khan’s contributions to Afghanistan’s cricketing success, while also advising a focus on Test cricket. As Afghanistan heads into the Champions Trophy, they face challenges, including the absence of Ghazanfar, but remain optimistic about their performance.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com