The Pakistan cricket team has come under fire for hosting private dinners for fans in the United States during their T20 World Cup campaign. The controversy erupted as former wicketkeeper-batsman Rashid Latif criticized the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for organizing these events for a fee of USD 25.
Latif expressed his dismay in a video posted on social media, calling the decision to host paid dinners “terrible.” He emphasized that such actions reflect poorly on the players and the board, suggesting that the commercialization of these interactions could lead to negative perceptions.
“This is a private function with the name of Pakistan and Pakistan cricket associated with it. Don’t make this mistake,” Latif cautioned.
The backlash comes at a crucial time for Pakistan, who are set to face the USA in their T20 World Cup opener. The team’s recent performances, including a defeat against Ireland, have raised concerns about their form and preparation leading up to the tournament.
Latif highlighted the shift in player attitudes, noting that many now prioritize monetary gain over other considerations. He urged players to be more mindful of their actions and to avoid tarnishing the image of Pakistani cricket.
“While there are official dinners, this is a private dinner. Who can do this? It’s terrible. That means you met our players in 25 dollars. God forbid, had there been a mess, people would have said boys are earning money,” Latif said in the video.
“People tell me that whoever calls the Pakistan players, they just ask, ‘how much money will you give?’ This has become common. Things were different at our time, we had 2-3 dinners but they were official. But this is highlighted because it’s the World Cup. So the players should be careful,” Latif added.
While acknowledging the need for fundraising events and charity dinners, Latif emphasized that these should be distinct from commercial ventures. He suggested that the PCB should reconsider its approach to fan interactions to avoid further criticism and maintain the integrity of the game.
The controversy surrounding the paid fan dinners adds to the challenges facing Pakistan as they aim to perform well in the T20 World Cup. The team’s ability to focus amidst off-field distractions will be crucial as they seek to make an impact in the tournament.
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