Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif claimed that Rashid Khan is “greater” than Wasim Akram due to Khan’s significant impact on Afghan cricket. Latif later apologized for his statement but provided constructive advice for Khan’s development. Afghanistan is set to participate in the ICC Champions Trophy, although they will miss AM Ghazanfar due to injury.
In a recent public appearance on the talk show “Hasna Mana Hai,” former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif asserted that Rashid Khan of Afghanistan is “greater” than legendary Pakistani pacer Wasim Akram. Latif’s audacious claim was grounded in his belief that Khan has had a significant impact on Afghan cricket, propelling it onto the global stage. He highlighted Khan’s remarkable achievement as the highest wicket-taker in T20 history, with 634 wickets, as justification for his assertion.
While Latif expressed pride in Khan’s contributions, he later apologized for his statement, acknowledging its gravity. He stated, “I am sorry to say but Rashid’s stature is bigger.” Notably, Latif did offer constructive advice to Khan regarding the enhancement of Afghanistan’s test cricket team, emphasizing the importance of increased participation in Test matches against Pakistan.
Khan’s exceptional performances have positioned him as a pivotal figure in Afghanistan cricket. Following a successful outing in the 2023 ODI World Cup and making it to the semifinals of last year’s T20 World Cup, Afghanistan approaches the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy with optimism. Their campaign is set to commence against South Africa on February 21 in Karachi, after facing formidable opponents England and Australia in later matches.
However, Afghanistan’s hopes have been dimmed with the absence of spinner AM Ghazanfar, who has been ruled out of the Champions Trophy due to a lower back fracture sustained during the team’s tour to Zimbabwe. The Afghanistan Cricket Board announced his injury will require at least four months of treatment before he can return.
The Afghanistan squad for the Champions Trophy includes notable players such as Hashmatullah Shahidi (captain), Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and Rashid Khan among others. The team’s performance in the upcoming tournament will be closely watched by cricket enthusiasts, especially in light of the challenges they face with injuries.
Rashid Latif’s recent comments on Rashid Khan’s greatness compared to Wasim Akram sparked a significant discussion about their respective impacts on cricket. While Latif later apologized, his remarks highlighted Khan’s pivotal role in elevating Afghanistan’s cricketing status. As the team prepares for the Champions Trophy, their performance will be crucial, especially with the notable absence of spinner AM Ghazanfar due to injury.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
