Rashid Latif Urges Pakistan to Play Aggressive Cricket in ICC

ormer Pakistan Test cricketer Rashid Latif has called on the national team to adopt an aggressive style of play as they gear up for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which will be hosted in Pakistan for the first time in history. The former wicketkeeper-batter believes that with the home advantage and passionate fans behind them, the defending champions have a golden opportunity to recreate their 2017 glory.

Latif, who represented Pakistan in 37 Tests and 177 One-Day Internationals (ODIs) between 1992 and 2003, expressed excitement over the upcoming event, emphasizing that the team must focus on positivity, confidence, and consistency.

“They have to play good, positive cricket and make use of home advantage to retain the title they won so memorably in 2017,” Latif said in an interview. “These are thrilling days for Pakistan cricket. Hosting the world’s top teams is a massive achievement for the PCB and the government.”

Pakistan Set to Make History as Host Nation

The Champions Trophy 2025 will mark a historic milestone as Pakistan hosts a major ICC event on home soil for the first time. The tournament is expected to attract immense attention from global cricket fans, with matches to be played across Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi.

Rashid Latif praised the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the government for successfully securing the tournament’s hosting rights, calling it a “landmark moment” for the country’s cricketing revival.

“This event will show the world that Pakistan is ready for international cricket at the highest level,” Latif said. “The PCB’s efforts and the fans’ unwavering passion have brought us to this point.”

India’s Matches to Be Held in UAE Amid Political Tensions

In a unique arrangement, India’s matches in the tournament are expected to be played in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) due to ongoing political tensions between the two nations. However, Latif urged the Pakistan players to remain focused and avoid unnecessary distractions related to India’s participation.

“India’s matches in the UAE are their business. Pakistan should focus solely on their own performance,” he asserted. “The key is to play fearless, attacking cricket — that’s how champions are made.”

Call for Aggressive and Confident Cricket

Latif’s message comes at a time when cricket experts and fans are calling for a more assertive and modern approach from the Pakistan team, especially in limited-overs formats. He believes that with the likes of Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan has the firepower to dominate at home if they play with intent.

“Pakistan has match-winners in every department. What they need is the mindset to attack and put pressure on the opposition,” Latif explained. “Home conditions should give them the confidence to express themselves freely.”

A Defining Moment for Pakistan Cricket

As anticipation builds for the Champions Trophy 2025, Pakistan’s preparations have entered a crucial stage. The tournament is not only an opportunity to reclaim the title but also a test of Pakistan’s readiness to host international cricket after years of rebuilding its image as a safe and passionate cricketing destination.

Cricket fans across the country are expected to fill stadiums, turning the event into a celebration of national pride and sporting excellence.

Rashid Latif’s call for aggressive cricket reflects a broader sentiment shared by former players and analysts — that Pakistan must combine tactical discipline with fearless play to emerge victorious once again on the global stage.

“The world will be watching Pakistan,” Latif concluded. “This is our moment to show the strength, spirit, and skill that define Pakistan cricket.”