Rashid Latif criticises Pakistan cricket system, calls for stronger accountability

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has raised serious concerns about the structure and culture of Pakistan cricket, saying the country needs long-term planning and stronger accountability to compete consistently at the highest level.

Latif compared Pakistan’s cricket system with that of the India national cricket team, highlighting how sustained planning and patience helped India develop a winning culture over the years.

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“They have spent 10 to 15 years building their system. If you look at recent ICC events and tournaments like the Asia Cup, their DNA is to reach the final and win the trophy,” Latif said.

He contrasted that approach with Pakistan’s record in major tournaments, suggesting that the national team often struggles to maintain consistency in crucial stages of competitions.

“Our DNA has become losing before the knockout stage, whereas their DNA is to play finals and win them,” he remarked.

Latif also took aim at the governance structure of the Pakistan Cricket Board, arguing that the board’s system focuses heavily on fines and rewards tied to central contracts rather than addressing deeper issues in domestic cricket and player development.

“This is a weak board. The system revolves around fines and rewards — if a player does something wrong, there is a fine; if he performs well, there is a reward,” he said.

The former wicketkeeper-batter stressed that responsibility for improving Pakistan cricket should not fall solely on players, insisting that administrators, selectors and other stakeholders must also be held accountable.

Latif further questioned the transparency of the selection process, suggesting that picking players from multiple lists could lead to unfair decisions and confusion within the system.

His remarks have once again sparked debate about the structure and management of Pakistan cricket, with many former players regularly calling for reforms within the Pakistan Cricket Board to ensure long-term stability and success at the international level.