Lahore ( NNP )– In the wake of Pakistan’s T20 series defeat against England and the national cricket team’s lackluster performance, former captains Rashid Latif and Rameez Raja have recommended strategic changes to current captain Babar Azam. They emphasized the importance of reinstating Muhammad Rizwan as the team’s wicketkeeper.
Rashid Latif highlighted the critical role of a wicketkeeper, noting that the removal of Rizwan from this position has impacted team dynamics. “The biggest issue right now is the wicketkeeping of the national team,” said Latif. “We have two wicketkeepers, Usman and Muhammad Rizwan. I suggest that wicketkeeping should be done by a senior player who watches the game from the back. Rizwan has been effectively managing this role for the past four years.”
Latif, drawing from his own experience along with Moin Khan’s, stressed the necessity of having a reliable wicketkeeper who can guide the captain from behind the stumps. He expressed concerns about the current setup, where communication lapses and missed catches have become prevalent.
Rameez Raja echoed Latif’s sentiments, stating that Rizwan should resume wicketkeeping duties while continuing to open alongside Babar Azam. He suggested that Azam Khan, currently the wicketkeeper, be played as an all-rounder instead.
Additionally, former captain Shoaib Malik provided crucial advice for the upcoming World Cup. Malik suggested that Babar Azam should bat at number three rather than opening. “We need a middle-order batsman who can shift the momentum, and Babar is our best option for that role,” Malik said.
The former captains’ insights reflect a shared belief that strategic changes are essential for the team’s improvement and future success on the international stage.
