Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif claimed Rashid Khan is “greater” than Wasim Akram, emphasizing Khan’s impact on Afghanistan’s cricketing stature. He later apologized for the statement, recognizing its implications. Khan leads Afghanistan in the forthcoming Champions Trophy while dealing with the absence of player AM Ghazanfar, sidelined with a back injury.
Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif recently made headlines by claiming that Afghanistan cricketer Rashid Khan is “greater” than the legendary Wasim Akram, based on the impact each player has had on their nation’s cricketing history. Latif asserted that Rashid Khan has significantly elevated Afghanistan’s profile in international cricket, particularly in T20 formats where he has become the highest wicket-taker with 634 wickets.
During a discussion on the show “Hasna Mana Hai” on Geo News, Latif initially praised Khan’s contributions to Afghanistan cricket, articulating that Khan’s emergence has helped the country gain recognition. However, this bold statement drew criticism, leading Latif to apologize for what he later termed an overreaching assessment.
Latif did offer a word of advice to Khan, stressing the importance of improving Afghanistan’s Test team and encouraging them to compete in more Test matches against Pakistan. This advice reflects a broader ambition for Afghanistan to enhance their stature in the cricketing world through more diversified formats.
Khan is preparing to lead Afghanistan in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, following an impressive showing in the 2023 ODI World Cup and a historic semifinal run in the previous T20 World Cup. Afghanistan will commence their Champions Trophy campaign against South Africa in Karachi on February 21, facing formidable opponents England and Australia in subsequent matches.
However, Afghanistan has faced a setback with the news that spinner AM Ghazanfar will miss the Champions Trophy due to a lower back fracture sustained during their tour in Zimbabwe late last year. This injury is significant, as he will be sidelined for at least four months, monitored under strict treatment protocols as per the Afghanistan Cricket Board’s announcement.
In summary, Rashid Latif’s provocative claim that Rashid Khan surpasses Wasim Akram has stirred significant debate within the cricket community. Despite his initial assertion, Latif later apologized while acknowledging Khan’s vital role in promoting Afghanistan’s cricket. As Khan prepares to captain his nation in the Champions Trophy, Afghanistan aims to build upon their recent successes in international cricket, although they must contend with the loss of a key player due to injury.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
