Rashid Latif backs omission of four players from World Cup squad

Former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif has expressed apprehension about the backup plans for Pakistan's cricket team for the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 in India.

While talking on his YouTube channel, Latif voiced his concerns over the lack of a strong backup plan in case of any unfortunate turn of events during the World Cup. He stressed the importance of preparing players like Abrar Ahmed, Zaman Khan, Qasim Akram, and Mubasir Khan for ODIs well in advance.

"Players are checked during the bilateral series but we don't change our combination. We play bilateral series, Asia Cup, Afghanistan series or even the World Cup in the same manner. Abrar [Ahmed], Zaman [Khan], Qasim Akram and Mubasir [Khan] should have been prepared for ODIs one year ago," Latif said.

Latif expressed his satisfaction with the exclusion of players like Zaman, Abrar, Haris, and Sarfaraz from the current squad while highlighting the possibility of these players being crucial choices in the event of a crisis, drawing a parallel to the 2003 World Cup, where nine new players were introduced to the side.

"If there is a disaster in the World Cup, we have not made a backup team. Will you bring back the old players then? I'm happy that Zaman, Abrar, Haris and Sarfaraz have not been selected. If there is a disaster, like 2003 World Cup when nine players came into the side, you have four players who will automatically become a choice for the team," he further added.

It is worth noting that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) revealed the men's squad for the upcoming ICC World Cup on Friday.

Hasan Ali was announced as a replacement for Naseem Shah in the 15-member World Cup squad due to Naseem's shoulder injury sustained during the Asia Cup 2023, sidelining him for an extended period.