In an odd request to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif suggested that Babar Azam be kept away from the English media during the team’s next three-match Test tour of England.
Latif has urged the PCB to deploy former captain Shan Masood to handle media relations for the series since he thinks Babar would be subject to intense scrutiny from the English media.
Rashid Latif’s Advice To Babar Azam
“An England tour is a difficult assignment, and the English media often tries to unnecessarily involve visiting teams in news stories,” Rashid said while speaking on Geo News programme Score.
“Babar Azam is an experienced player, so it would be better for the PCB management to keep him away from the English media and send former captain Shan Masood to speak to them more often. Shan has played in England and has better experience of dealing with the English media,” he added.
Latif’s remarks follow Babar’s noteworthy performance in Pakistan’s most recent two-Test series against the West Indies.
Babar’s Return To Form
In Pakistan’s 90-run loss in the opening Test at the Brian Lara Stadium in Tarouba, Babar scored an undefeated 58. As Pakistan was chasing 211, they were bowled out for just 120, with Babar going undefeated as the rest of the batting lineup fell apart.
In the second Test at Queen’s Park Oval in Port of Spain, the Pakistani skipper then gave a powerful response. After the West Indies had reached 344, he helped Pakistan post 387 by scoring 88 from 147 balls in the first innings. Then, in the second innings, Babar scored an undefeated 24 from 30 balls as Pakistan chased down 75 to win by eight wickets and tie the series at one.
In addition, ‘s first overseas Test victory since taking over as captain ended ‘s eight-match losing record in away Tests. With the first Test set to start on August 19 at Headingley in Leeds, Pakistan will now focus on England. Before the series ends at Edgbaston on September 9, the second Test will take place at Lord’s on August 27.