Rashid Latif suggests Saqlain Mushtaq as ‘spin bowling coach’

Latif says there is no harm is hiring a separate coach for the spin department.

ISLAMABAD: Former captain and wicket-keeper Rashid Latif believes that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) should appoint a spin bowling coach for the national cricket team and suggested spinner Saqlain Mushtaq for the job. 

Latif said that as far as the spin department is concerned, there is no harm in hiring a separate individual for it, said a press release issued on Monday.

"In my view, Saqlain Mushtaq is best suited for the job," said Latif, who has represented Pakistan in 37 test matches from 1992 to 2003.

The PCB last week confirmed former fast bowler Muhammad Akram as the bowling coach for the national team. Lauding the decision, Latif said that this decision would have a significant impact on the Pakistani team as a whole.

"I have known him (Akram) for years. He is a hard-worker and knows the art of man-management which is the key to modern coaching methodology," said Latif.

Latif had been speaking very highly of Akram since the PCB started the hunt for the team's bowling coach."Akram is qualified and familiar with the philosophy of modern coaching. I hope he will treat the players equally, and deal with them accordingly as well. I am sure he is capable of doing it," he maintained.

Responding to a question, Latif said that Akram's experience should be utilised more at the academy and at the junior level. "Dav Whatmore and Akram would make a good combination which will serve the team well," he said.