ISLAMABAD: Former Pakistani cricket captain Rashid Latif has recommended that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) should limit Babar Azam’s interactions with the English media during the upcoming three-Test series in England.
Pakistan has arrived in England for the series, with Babar Azam leading the team. The first Test is scheduled to begin at Headingley, Leeds, from August 19 to 23.
During a televised discussion, Rashid emphasized the importance of a strategic approach to media duties, highlighting the challenges visiting teams often encounter with the aggressive coverage from the English press.
“Touring England is a tough challenge, and the local media tends to scrutinize visiting teams more intensely,” Rashid commented. “It would be wise for the PCB to manage Babar’s media commitments carefully and consider assigning other team members to handle press responsibilities.”
He suggested that, given Babar’s experience, it would be better for the management to keep him focused on the field and delegate media duties to other seasoned players. Rashid specifically mentioned Shan Masood as a suitable candidate, citing his prior experience playing in England and his familiarity with handling UK media.
“Shan Masood has played in England before and understands how to deal with the local press,” Rashid added. “Imam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Abbas are also well-suited to represent Pakistan in media interactions during this tour.”
Babar Azam resumed the Test captaincy after Shan Masood’s tenure ended amid a series of mixed results. This tour marks his second series as captain since his return to the role.
This will be Pakistan’s first Test tour of England since 2020 and forms part of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle.
The series kicks off at Headingley from August 19 to 23, with the second match scheduled at Lord’s from August 27 to 31. The tour will conclude at Edgbaston, Birmingham, from September 9 to 13.
