Rashid Latif questions Pakistan’s batting order experiments ahead of T20 World Cup

Former Pakistan captain and wicketkeeper-batsman Rashid Latif has expressed serious concerns over the national team’s frequent changes in batting positions just weeks before the upcoming T20 World Cup, calling the last-minute experimentation a worrying sign for team management.

In a series of posts on social media, Latif highlighted how key players are being shuffled in the batting order despite having limited experience in those roles at the international level.

Latif pointed out that Fakhar Zaman, who has played 107 T20 international innings, has batted at number five only seven times in his career. His appearance in that position in the latest match, according to Latif, reflects uncertainty in the team’s planning.

“The continuous adjustment of batting positions on the eve of a major tournament shows a lack of clarity,” Latif suggested, implying that the coaching staff may be improvising rather than following a settled strategy.

He also drew attention to Babar Azam’s unusual placement at number four. Babar, who has featured in 130 T20 innings, is traditionally used as an opener or at number three. Latif noted that batting at number four marked only the second time in eight years that the former captain has occupied that slot.

“These are not routine changes. These are experiments happening at the last moment,” Latif wrote, expressing concern over the timing of such decisions.

Meanwhile, Latif observed that current captain Salman Ali Agha appears to be finding stability at number three. Agha has batted in that position seven times in his 40 T20 innings, and Latif believes he is gradually settling into the role.

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However, he warned that the uncertainty surrounding Babar and Fakhar’s positions could negatively impact Pakistan’s preparations.

“Agha looks settled, but Babar at four and Fakhar at five remain unresolved,” Latif noted, adding that such instability could affect team balance and confidence.

With the T20 World Cup approaching, Latif urged team management to finalize roles and avoid further experimentation, stressing that clarity and consistency are vital for success on the global stage.

His remarks have sparked debate among fans and analysts, many of whom share similar concerns about Pakistan’s readiness and strategic direction ahead of the marquee tournament.