Which Pakistan player does Latif think will excel in the Asia Cup?

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Rashid Latif Fakhar Zaman key to Pakistan winning Asia Cup cricket

Rashid Latif: “Fakhar Zaman holds the key as he is in terrific form and producing wonders with the willow”

Image courtesy of: ESPNcricinfo

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif is backing opener Fakhar Zaman to shine in the Asia Cup, which will be held in the United Arab Emirates later this month.

Zaman was in sublime form during Pakistan’s five-match ODI series against Zimbabwe as he scored 515 runs in five ODIs, which included two centuries and two fifties, at an average of 257.50.

Zaman also made history during the series as he struck a career-best 210 not out in the fourth ODI.

Zaman joined an elite club following his spectacular knock as he became just the sixth player to score a double century in ODI cricket.

In addition, his knock was the fifth-highest in ODI history and the highest by a Pakistani batsman.

In addition to his spectacular double century, Zaman also became the fastest batsman to score 1,000 ODI runs with his knock of 85 in the fifth ODI.

Given all this, Latif is optimistic that the 28-year-old will continue making his presence felt with the bat.

“Pakistan’s batting is highly balanced and has been delivering for last few matches consistently,” he was quoted as saying by The Nation. “For me, Fakhar Zaman holds the key as he is in terrific form and producing wonders with the willow.

“He can provide Pakistan with a perfect start and he will remain instrumental throughout the Asia Cup and upcoming series.”


Meanwhile, Latif was also glad to see left-arm seamer Junaid Khan back in the side.

“The return of Junaid Khan will boost the fast bowling department as he has formed a formidable partnership with Mohammad Amir and Faheem Ashraf,” he said. “Shahdab Khan will definitely add strength to bowling, and Shoaib Malik, like always, will be the backbone of the middle order and his experience and reading of the game will boost Pakistan’s chances further. On a whole, the Pakistan team is balanced and capable of winning the Asia Cup.”