ISLAMABAD, Aug. 10 (Alliance News): Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has advised the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to carefully manage Babar Azam’s media commitments during the national team’s upcoming three-Test tour of England, suggesting the skipper should have limited interaction with the English media.
Pakistan have already arrived in England ahead of the three-match Test series, with the opening fixture scheduled to be played at Headingley, Leeds, from August 19 to 23 as part of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27.
Speaking on a television programme, Latif said England tours often present unique challenges, not only on the field but also in dealing with the British media.
“An England tour is always a difficult assignment, and the English media often tries to unnecessarily draw visiting teams into controversies,” he said.
The former wicketkeeper-batter suggested the PCB should reduce Babar Azam’s exposure to frequent media interactions so he can remain fully focused on leading the side.
According to Latif, former Test captain Shan Masood would be better suited to handle most of the team’s media responsibilities.
“Babar Azam is an experienced player, but it would be better if the PCB management keeps him away from the English media and allows Shan Masood to attend more press conferences,” he said.
He added that Shan’s experience of playing county and international cricket in England gives him a better understanding of the local media environment.
Latif also suggested that senior players Imam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Abbas could represent the Pakistan team during media engagements throughout the tour.
Babar Azam recently returned as Pakistan’s Test captain after Shan Masood’s tenure ended following a challenging run of results. The England series will be his first overseas Test assignment since reassuming the leadership role.
The three-match series will begin at Headingley from August 19-23, followed by the second Test at Lord’s from August 27-31. The final Test will be played at Edgbaston, Birmingham, from September 9-13.
The tour marks Pakistan’s first Test series in England since 2020 and carries significant importance in the race for points in the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27.
