Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has voiced strong concerns about the current state of Pakistan's cricket team. He described Pakistan as a "bottom 5 team," and questioned the quality of the country's bowlers compared to others.
The scathing criticism comes right after Pakistan's 10-wicket loss to Bangladesh in the first Test match at Rawalpindi which ended on Sunday.
Latif highlighted the issue with Pakistan's medical care by pointing out that, unlike Jofra Archer, who maintains his pace even after a two-year injury absence, Pakistani bowlers tend to lose their pace.
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What are Rashid Latif's concerns about Shaheen Afridi's form?
Latif specifically pointed out the decline in Shaheen Afridi's pace, which he believes is due to poor medical management.
"How can Shaheen’s speed decrease? In 2022, he was bowling at 144 kph," Latif said. He questioned whether the medical staff is allowing half-fit players to play.
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Latif also criticized the delayed knee scan for Fakhar Zaman during the World Cup and the decision to play Naseem Shah in the Asia Cup despite his injury. He compared Pakistan’s situation to India’s, noting that Jasprit Bumrah returned from injury and maintained his pace, still ranking as the number one bowler in the world.
Latif drew comparisons with former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar, who would return from injury and still bowl at 150 kph.
"If Shoaib Akhtar bowled at 120 kph, would anyone have watched him? After six months, he would come back and bowl at 150 kph. How have the current bowlers dropped to 130? The medical staff is colluding with the players," Latif questioned.
Latif didn't hold back in questioning the competency of Pakistan's medical team. He urged the cricket board to closely monitor the situation, emphasizing the need for thorough fitness assessments.
"How can Shaheen’s pace drop like this? It's the responsibility of the medical team to ensure our players are fully fit before they take the field," Latif asserted.
Latif's comments raise serious concerns about the fitness management of Pakistan's cricket team. The cricket board will need to address these issues to ensure that the team performs at its best in future tournaments.