In a cricketing culture where clinging to stars is the norm, Pakistanโs recent shift in T20I direction is nothing short of bold. But if you thought the decision to move on from Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Shah Afridi was controversial, think again, because former skipper Rashid Latif is on board.
The ex-wicketkeeper-batter, known for his straightforward takes, recently threw his weight behind the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for giving younger players a go and letting the senior trio explore opportunities abroad.
Rashid Latif on Stars Eyeing Global Leagues
Speaking on a local YouTube channel, Latif was refreshingly honest about the situation.
โTheyโre playing in the Big Bash and will earn decent money, and I donโt think theyโd want to return either,โ he said.
In his view, the PCB should give senior players the freedom to pursue international leagues, especially when they no longer seem central to T20I plans.
โThe PCB should give them some liberty to explore other leagues. Otherwise, itโs fine,โ Latif added.
Itโs a sentiment that strikes a chord, especially in todayโs cricket economy, where players often balance national duties with franchise ambitions.
Why It Makes Sense?
With the Asia Cup and multiple T20I tours on the horizon, Pakistan is clearly looking to refresh its white-ball core. And according to Latif, thatโs exactly what should happen.
โThe new players should be given a chance โ itโs a great opportunityโฆ the game will keep progressing.โ
For context, Babar, Rizwan, and Shaheen havenโt featured in T20Is since the New Zealand series. And theyโre now also missing from the squads for upcoming tours of Bangladesh, the West Indies, and the expected tri-nation series with UAE and Afghanistan.
Making Waves in the Big Bash League
While they may be absent from the national squad, the trio is certainly not sitting idle.
- Shaheen Afridi became the first overall pick in the BBL Season 15 Draft, going to Brisbane Heat under the platinum category.
- Mohammad Rizwan, known for his consistency and work ethic, was the third platinum pick, signed by Melbourne Renegades, marking his BBL debut.
- Babar Azam? He didnโt even wait for the draft. Sydney Sixers pre-signed him ahead of the official event, locking in their star top-order batter early.
These moves not only reflect the playersโ marketability but also underline their growing global value in franchise cricket.
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