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Latif criticised the ICC’s handling of the issue, saying its assurance on security was flawed. (ICC Photo)
Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has said Pakistan should consider boycotting the T20 World Cup in protest after the International Cricket Council (ICC) rejected Bangladesh’s request to move its matches out of India.
“If Pakistan and India don’t happen, 50 per cent of your World Cup is gone. This is a great opportunity to challenge the existing cricket order,” Latif said on the YouTube channel CaughtBehindShow. “Pakistan should say they stand with Bangladesh and refuse to play the T20 World Cup. This is the time to take a stand. You need a strong heart to do it.”
Latif criticised the ICC’s handling of the issue, saying its assurance on security was flawed.
“It doesn’t feel like a good decision. Today, the ICC says there is no danger to Bangladeshi players in India. No agency in the world can say there is no danger — how can the ICC say that?” he said. “Even in the most secure places, no one can give such a guarantee. Hopefully, nothing happens to any team.”
He further alleged political influence behind the decision.
“This is a political move — from Amit Shah to Jay Shah,” Latif said, referring to India’s home minister and ICC chairman Jay Shah. “The trump card is still with Pakistan. Bangladesh ‘s stance is right. Pakistan won’t get a better opportunity than this.”
Latif said Pakistan must respond decisively rather than limiting itself to statements.
“Pakistan not playing would be like stopping the World Cup. Pakistan is the key,” he said. “Yes, Pakistan could suffer in the future. There could be sanctions if Pakistan refuses to play ICC events. But there is no use of just words — now is the time to show who you support.”
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Calling for coordination between the two countries, Latif added, “If there is trust between Pakistan and Bangladesh, this can be done. Let’s wait and see what decision Bangladesh takes in response to the ICC’s ultimatum.”
He warned that backing down would have consequences. “If they buckle and play the World Cup, both Pakistan and Bangladesh will face criticism from all sides, (“har koney se thappad padenge”), he said.
English (US) ·