Drama erupts! Ex-Pakistan star Rashid Latif's explosive take on India-Pakistan World Cup final: 'Nahi khelenge'!
NEW DELHI: The uncertainty surrounding Pakistan's participation in the T20 World Cup 2026 has sparked intense debate, with former Pakistan wicketkeeper Rashid Latif weighing in with a strong opinion. While the Pakistan Cricket Board awaits clearance from the government, Latif believes the window for decisive action has already closed. He argues that Pakistan should have withdrawn immediately after the decision to shift the tournament away from Bangladesh, stating, "The time for a strike has passed. Every decision has a timing. You should strike while the iron is hot. That time was last week during the ICC meeting."
Latif acknowledges that the ultimate decision rests with the government, but he feels the opportunity to make a meaningful statement has passed. He suggests that Pakistan could still opt out of playing India, even if the two sides were to meet in the final, saying, "If the government says we won't play against India, the ICC will have to accept it. If they don't, that's where the real confrontation begins."
While the board has scheduled the squad's departure to Colombo on February 2, a move that virtually rules out a boycott of either the tournament or the high-profile February 15 clash against India, Latif's remarks underline growing frustration over what he sees as a delayed and diluted response. The speculation has been rife in sections of the media that Pakistan could withdraw from the tournament or refuse to face India, and Latif's comments have added fuel to the fire. Will Pakistan participate in the World Cup? Will they boycott the India match? The controversy continues, and the cricket world watches with bated breath.
But here's where it gets controversial... What do you think, readers? Do you agree with Latif's stance? Or do you think Pakistan should participate in the World Cup, regardless of the political tensions? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
