Rashid Latif defends the BCCI against criticisms from former England cricketers regarding match scheduling in Dubai. He acknowledges the scheduling errors but asserts that blame should not fall solely on the BCCI. Latif emphasizes that all stakeholders agreed to the schedule and should not complain post-exit of their teams.
Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has defended the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) amidst criticism from former England cricketers like Nasser Hussain and Michael Atherton regarding the scheduling of matches at the Dubai International Stadium. These commentators have expressed concern that India enjoys an advantage due to their matches being held at the same venue.
Latif acknowledged a “scheduling blunder” by the International Cricket Council (ICC) but emphasized that the blame should not rest solely on the BCCI. During his YouTube show ‘Caught Behind’, he remarked, “If we (Pakistan) are talking about India having an advantage, you get it. But why are former England cricketers whining about it now? Begaani shaadi mein abdullah deewana.”
He further stated that the scheduling issue could have been easily rectified. Had India played their match against New Zealand one day earlier in Dubai, the semifinal lineup would have been clearer. Latif expressed frustration, saying, “You have one job: to check the schedule, and you missed the mistake. Once you agreed, and now your team is out, you are whinging.”
Latif asserted that Pakistanis feel compelled to voice their grievances due to alleged jealousy, stating that the international community should refrain from complaints about the scheduling. He insisted, “If India is getting all the support, but you all agreed to it… the rest of the world should not moan about this issue. You all agreed to this schedule.”
As the cricket world focuses on the upcoming final of the Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled between India and New Zealand, it is notable that both teams have experienced matches at the Dubai venue, influencing their preparation for the final.
In conclusion, Rashid Latif has voiced his support for the BCCI amidst critiques regarding match scheduling advantages in Dubai. While acknowledging the scheduling errors made by the ICC, he stressed that all involved parties had the responsibility to ensure proper arrangements were made and noted the tendency of former cricketers to complain once their teams had exited the competition. Latif called for a more accepting attitude towards the current situation, emphasizing that agreed schedules should not lead to unproductive grievances.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
