Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif defended BCCI amidst criticisms of scheduling for the 2025 Champions Trophy. He criticized ICC representatives for their roles in the scheduling blunders, emphasizing shared accountability. While Indian players refuted undue advantage claims, Shami acknowledged benefits of playing at a single venue.
Rashid Latif, the former captain of Pakistan, has come to the defense of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) amid ongoing criticisms regarding scheduling issues for the 2025 Champions Trophy. Latif expressed his discontent concerning the International Cricket Council (ICC) representatives, who he believes contributed to the scheduling errors rather than placing the blame solely on the BCCI.
The controversy arose when it was announced that due to geopolitical tensions, India would not participate in the Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan, instead playing in Dubai. Critics accused India of benefitting from this arrangement, as they played all their matches at a single venue. Latif criticized former England cricketers for complaining about India’s supposed advantage, suggesting they interfere unnecessarily.
Latif acknowledged the scheduling problems while emphasizing the shared responsibility among other cricket boards. He criticized them for overlooking the issue: “You have one job: to check the schedule, and you missed the mistake.” He urged all representatives to focus on their responsibilities instead of complaining after the fact.
In contrast, Indian captain Rohit Sharma and coach Gautam Gambhir dismissed the idea of undue advantage, asserting that the playing conditions in Dubai differ significantly from ICC Academy practice conditions. Gambhir insisted there was no advantage as they were unfamiliar with Dubai’s conditions. Conversely, fast bowler Mohammed Shami recognized that playing all matches at the same venue did provide India with an advantage due to their familiarity with the pitch and conditions.
Rashid Latif supports BCCI amidst scheduling criticism, deeming the ICC responsible for the oversight. He calls for cricket boards to focus on their duties instead of complaining. In response, Indian representatives contest claims of undue advantage while acknowledging some benefits from a consistent venue.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
