Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif controversially claimed that Rashid Khan is “greater” than Wasim Akram, citing Khan’s impact on Afghan cricket. Latif later apologized for his statement but advised Khan to improve the Test team. Afghanistan is set to compete in the Champions Trophy but will miss spinner AM Ghazanfar due to injury.
Rashid Latif, former Pakistan cricket captain, recently sparked controversy by claiming that Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan is “greater” than Pakistan’s legendary Wasim Akram. Latif attributed his bold statement to the significant impact Khan has had on Afghanistan’s cricketing prominence, particularly in T20 formats, where he is the highest wicket-taker with 634 wickets.
During a segment on the talk show Hasna Mana Hai 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.” Despite this assertion, he later expressed regret for making such a strong claim.
Additionally, Latif advised Rashid Khan to enhance his Test team’s capabilities and emphasize playing more Test matches against Pakistan, underlining the need for solid experience in longer formats of the game. Since his debut in 2015, Khan has participated in 213 International matches.
Afghanistan is gearing up for the upcoming Champions Trophy, set to begin on February 21 against South Africa in Karachi. The team aims to replicate their successful performance from the recent ODI World Cup and their T20 World Cup semifinal appearance.
However, Afghanistan faces a setback as spinner AM Ghazanfar will miss the Champions Trophy due to a lower back fracture sustained during their Zimbabwe tour. The Afghanistan Cricket Board confirmed his injury, stating he will be undergoing treatment for at least four months.
Rashid Latif’s controversial statement elevating Rashid Khan over Wasim Akram highlights the growing prominence of Afghan cricket on the global stage. Despite later expressing regret, Latif’s comments reflect the admiration Khan has garnered for his outstanding contributions. As Afghanistan prepares for the Champions Trophy, they face challenges, including Ghazanfar’s injury, but remain optimistic for future success.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
