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Rashid Latif Advises PCB to Shield Babar Azam from English Media Ahead of Test Series

Former Pakistan wicketkeeper Rashid Latif has recommended that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) restrict captain Babar Azam’s interactions with the English press during the national team’s upcoming three-Test series in England.

What Happened

Speaking on Geo News’ Score programme, Rashid Latif voiced concerns regarding the intense scrutiny visiting sides face from the British press, recalling his own playing experiences during tours of England in 1992, 1996, and 2001. Latif highlighted that touring England presents tough challenges because local media outlets frequently attempt to draw visiting teams into unnecessary controversies.

To counteract this, Latif urged team management to shield Babar Azam from regular press commitments. Instead, he recommended fielding senior players such as former Test captain Shan Masood, who has extensive playing experience in England and familiarity with its media landscape. Latif additionally proposed opening batter Imam-ul-Haq and fast bowler Mohammad Abbas as practical alternatives to undertake press duties.

Key Highlights

  • Media Strategy Suggestion: Rashid Latif urged the PCB to keep Babar Azam away from English media to prevent off-field distractions.
  • Alternative Spokespersons: Former captain Shan Masood, alongside Imam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Abbas, were recommended to manage press obligations.
  • Tour Schedule: The three-match Test series is scheduled across Headingley (August 19–23), Lord’s (August 27–31), and Edgbaston (September 9–13).
  • Tournament Context: The series represents Pakistan’s first Test visit to England since 2020 and counts towards the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle.
  • Recent Form: Pakistan enters the tour following a 1-1 drawn Test series against the West Indies.

Why This Matters

The upcoming tour is Pakistan’s first red-ball assignment in England since 2020 and carries significant stakes within the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle. With Babar Azam resuming the Test captaincy following Shan Masood’s tenure, Latif views reducing non-cricketing responsibilities as critical for the skipper to concentrate fully on match planning, preparation, and leadership without the added pressure of press scrutiny.

What to Watch Next

Pakistan will commence the three-match Test campaign against England at Headingley in Leeds from August 19 to 23. The team will then travel to London for the second Test at Lord’s from August 27 to 31, before concluding the series at Edgbaston in Birmingham between September 9 and 13.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Rashid Latif advise restricting Babar Azam’s media sessions?

Latif explained that English media often tries to unnecessarily drag visiting sides into news stories, suggesting that shielding Babar will allow the captain to focus on match tactics and game preparation.

Who did Latif suggest as alternatives for press conferences?

Latif suggested using former captain Shan Masood—who has previous playing experience in England—as well as Imam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Abbas to handle media obligations.

When does Pakistan’s Test series in England begin?

The opening Test is scheduled to be played at Headingley in Leeds from August 19 to August 23.

Source: CricTracker via Geo News’ Score