KARACHI, (Reuters) – Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has resigned from a coaching position with the country’s national body after being asked to explain comments he made about the current spot-fixing and betting scandal.
The former wicketkeeper recently appeared on a television show where he criticised the Pakistan Cricket Board for their handling of allegations against three players on their tour of England.
Test captain Salman Butt and pace bowlers Muhammad Asif and Mohammad Aamir are under investigation by British police for their role in the scandal, which has also led to their suspension by the International Cricket Council.
“I have sent my resignation today to the board which did not like my speaking on this important issue as I am employed with them in the academy,” Latif, who played 37 tests and 166 one-day internationals for his country, told Reuters.
“I would like to make it clear here that while it is an honour to serve Pakistan cricket in any position I can’t remain quiet on a key cricket issue that could determine the future of Pakistan cricket.
“As a former player and captain, people look up to me and expect me to speak honestly and without bias and that I have done without meaning anything personal against anyone.”
Latif later confirmed he had accepted an offer from the Afghanistan cricket association to become their head coach.
“Yes they made me an offer and I have accepted it because I want to contribute in cricket as a coach,” he said.
Latif said he would be leaving for Dubai later this week to supervise a training camp for the Afghan team.
