Former Pakistan captains Rashid Latif and Azhar Ali have voiced their frustration over the rain threat in the ongoing T20 World Cup matches in Florida. The forecast predicts heavy rain in Florida, putting Pakistan’s crucial matches at risk, prompting calls for the ICC to take immediate action.
Rashid Latif’s Outburst On Social Media
Latif took to his X account (formerly Twitter) to express his disappointment with the ICC’s scheduling decisions. He questioned the wisdom of holding matches in Florida during the rainy season.
“After eight matches in New York where playing surfaces ruled the roost (Canada’s 137-7 was the highest total and India’s 111-3 was the highest run-chase), brace for three more washouts in Lauderhill, Florida. Not a good advert for T20 World Cup for which teams train and practice for years!” Latif wrote.
He continued, “How can the T20 World Cup organizers ignore rain trends in Lauderhill during this period and schedule matches from June 14-16?”
Azhar Ali Urges ICC to Shift Matches
Echoing Latif’s concerns, Azhar Ali has urged the ICC to consider moving the matches out of Florida due to severe flood warnings.
“Viewing the circumstances in Florida, it is looking like the matches won’t take place. ICC must take action, knowing many matches will get affected and shift to another venue,” Azhar said on a local news channel.
Azhar pointed out that the ICC is already facing criticism for the subpar pitches at New York’s Nassau County International Cricket Stadium and emphasized the need for quick action.
“ICC need to take quick action and I am sure logistically, it would not be difficult. There will be questions on ICC if no matches take place in Florida. Already, there are questions on the pitch standards in New York,” he added.
Pakistan’s final group match against Ireland is scheduled for Sunday, June 16, at the Central Broward Regional Park Stadium in Lauderhill. The matches between Ireland and the USA on June 14, and Canada and India on June 15, are also set to be played there and are likely to be affected by rain. These games are crucial for Pakistan’s chances of advancing to the Super 8 stage.
For Pakistan to qualify, they need Ireland to defeat the USA and Canada to lose against India. Then, Pakistan must win their match against Ireland by a significant margin. If the rain continues, it could wash out these crucial matches, dashing Pakistan’s hopes of advancing.
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