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KARACHI Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif resigned as wicket-keeping coach for the National Cricket Academy on Tuesday after he was asked by the PCB to explain his comments on the spot-fixing scandal.
Soon after resigning from the job, Latif announced he will be rejoining the Afghan cricket team as their head coach.
“After having discussions with the Afghan Cricket Authorities I have accepted their offer to become the head coach of the Afghan Cricket Team and will join the Afghan Cricket team very soon,” he said.
Latif had been working as a wicket-keeping coach at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) but quit the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) sent him a stern notice regarding his comments on the on-going spot-fixing scandal involving Pakistani cricketers.
“I have taken the decision to resign after being issued a notice by the board (PCB) for having given statements on a television talk show on the spot fixing issue,” the former captain said in a statement.
The former wicketkeeper recently appeared on a television show where he criticised PCB for their handling of allegations against three players on their tour of England.
Test captain Salman Butt and pace bowlers Muhammad Asif and Muhammad Amir are under investigation by British police for their role in the scandal, which has also led to their suspension by the International Cricket Council.
“I have sent my resignation today to the board which did not like my speaking on this important issue as I am employed with them in the academy,” Latif said.
Latif has been known to be outspoken on matters of corruption and match-fixing in cricket.
“I would like to make it clear here that while it is an honour to serve Pakistan cricket in any position I cant remain quiet on a key cricket issue that could determine the future of Pakistan cricket,” he added.
“As a former player and captain, people look up to me and expect me to speak honestly and without bias and that I have done without meaning anything personal against anyone.”
Latif played 37 tests and 166 one-day internationals for Pakistan.
