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Raiwind Rd, Bhobtian, Lahore, Punjab
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Raiwind Rd, Bhobtian, Lahore, Punjab
LAHORE (92 News) Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif advised the national team to stay focused on the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy amid the ongoing controversy surrounding India’s decision to play all their matches in the UAE.
Pakistan is set to host the tournament for the first time since the 1996 World Cup, though India’s matches will be held in Dubai due to security concerns.
Latif emphasised that Pakistan should not be distracted by external issues and concentrate on playing cricket.
While praising the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) efforts to bring the tournament to Pakistan, he expressed confidence in the team’s ability to capitalise on home conditions, particularly with a strong spin-bowling lineup, including Abrar Ahmed and Sufiyan Muqeem.
However, Latif raised concerns over Pakistan’s opening combination, with Saim Ayub injured and Abdullah Shafique out of form. He suggested that Fakhar Zaman and Shan Masood could be the selectors’ choice for the opening pair.
It should be noted here that the Champions Trophy, from February 19 to March 9, 2025, will feature eight teams. Pakistan will face New Zealand in the opener on February 19 in Karachi and India in Dubai on February 23.