Rashid Latif Advises Keeping Babar Away From Media

KARACHI: (Sports Desk) – Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has advised the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to limit Babar Azam’s interaction with the English media during the national team’s upcoming tour.

Speaking on Geo News’ programme “Score,” Latif said England can be a challenging destination for visiting teams and suggested that the PCB adopt a careful media strategy to protect the national team captain from unnecessary distractions.

Latif, who toured England with Pakistan in 1992, 1996 and 2001, said the English media can sometimes create additional pressure around visiting teams through extensive coverage and questioning. He believes Babar, as an experienced player, would benefit from having limited media commitments during the tour.

The former wicketkeeper suggested that Shan Masood could take on a greater share of media duties, given his previous experience playing in England and his familiarity with the local media environment.

Latif also named Imam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Abbas as potential options to represent Pakistan in media interactions.

The Pakistan team has arrived in England for a three-Test series, with Babar Azam leading the side. The opening Test is scheduled to begin at Headingley in Leeds on August 19.