Rashid Latif supports BCCI amid criticism over scheduling advantages during the tournaments held at Dubai International Stadium. He acknowledges the scheduling error by the ICC but stresses that all cricket boards are to blame. Latif indicates complaints from former England players are unwarranted, stating everyone agreed to the schedule, and emphasizes accountability in cricket governance.
Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif publicly supported the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) after former England cricketers criticized India’s scheduling advantage during the matches at Dubai International Stadium. While he acknowledged a significant scheduling error by the International Cricket Council (ICC), Latif refrained from placing full blame on the BCCI.
During his YouTube show ‘Caught Behind’, Latif remarked, “If we (Pakistan) are talking about India having an advantage, you get it. But why are former England cricketers whining about it now?” He suggested that their complaints were unwarranted, emphasizing that the issue arose from the scheduling oversight rather than Indian favoritism.
Latif provided further context, stating, “Yes, there was a problem with scheduling. If India had played a day earlier, the semifinal lineup would have been decided easily.” He argued that all cricketing boards share responsibility for the blunder, suggesting a need for improved diligence during ICC meetings.
He noted that claims of venue-related excuses from Pakistanis stem from jealousy, asserting, “If India is getting all the support, but you all agreed to it, let’s say we Pakistanis are making excuses because of jealousy.” Latif criticized the global cricketing community for complaining about the schedule they collectively approved.
Currently, India faces New Zealand in the final of the Champions Trophy 2025, having won all four of their matches in Dubai. The Kiwi team’s prior experience at the same venue may provide them some advantage as well.
In summary, Rashid Latif has defended the BCCI amidst criticism regarding the scheduling of matches in Dubai. While acknowledging a, scheduling mistake by the ICC, he emphasized that all cricket boards share the responsibility. Latif implies that complaints about the schedule are unjustified given prior agreement, highlighting a need for greater accountability in cricket governance. As India and New Zealand meet in the Champions Trophy final, the current context illustrates competitive dynamics shaped by the scheduling controversy.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
