England were still 20 to 30 runs short, says Rashid Latif

Published August 31, 2016
“With such a heavy drubbing, there are chances of changes in Pakistan cricket.” — AFP
“With such a heavy drubbing, there are chances of changes in Pakistan cricket.” — AFP

ISLAMABAD: Former captain Rashid Latif, while laying severe criticism on Azhar Ali-led Pakistan for their below par performance against England last night, said that the hosts were ‘still 20 to 30 runs short’.

In a post-match analysis show on PTV Sports, the former Pakistan wicketkeeper said the selection committee opted for an imbalanced squad for the ongoing tour of England.

Eoin Morgan-led England tormented Pakistan’s bowling line-up to record highest-ever One-Day International (ODI) score of 444 in the third of the five-match series.

Commenting on England’s total, Rashid said: “In my opinion, England were 20 to 30 runs short as their batsmen had gotten tired by spanking boundaries. They may go on to score more than 444 in the remaining two matches.”

However, Rashid saw a silver lining in the defeat.

“Had England put up 300 and Pakistan lost the match by 50, it would not have had such an impact. With such a heavy drubbing, there are chances of changes in Pakistan cricket.”

Expressing his displeasure on Pakistan’s poor show at Trent Bridge, Nottingham, former Australian all-rounder Andrew Symonds said: “England’s outclass show displayed how the ODI cricket is played. Each and every individual’s role is defined in the team. They put themselves in such a position from where they could attack.”

England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) made drastic changes in their ranks following England’s premature exit from the 2015 World Cup which has made them most successful unit since March, last year.

Rashid further said that Pakistan selection committee is treating fast-bowler Mohammad Amir like they had with Mohammad Irfan, which resulted in latter’s injury.

“Amir is making a return after five years. He has been utilised in four Tests, then he was made to play against Ireland to win the contest. He is being treated in a similar manner as Irfan. He was played everywhere in the world in every format. Sharjah, Dubai, Chichawatni, he played everywhere. But when he fell, did anyone lift him?”

Rashid revealed that he had suggested to Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Shehryar Khan against appointing Azhar Ali as the national side’s captain, but he proceeded with the appointment and now the whole country is regretting his decision.

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