According to Latif, this is the best time to challenge the current cricketing system.
Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) have decided not to travel to India for the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup due to security concerns.
Bangladesh had requested that their scheduled matches in India be shifted to Sri Lanka, but the ICC rejected the proposal and insisted that all matches must be played in India.
The Bangladesh government has since reiterated its stance, stating that the ICC failed to ensure fair consideration of Bangladesh’s security concerns and that the Indian government did not provide adequate assurances.
Speaking shortly after Bangladesh’s final decision, Latif shared his views on the YouTube show Caught Behind.
“Pakistan should intervene in this matter. If Pakistan stands with Bangladesh and boycotts the World Cup, the tournament will be in serious trouble. I’ve said this before, once Bangladesh makes a decision, they stick to it. They have proven that India is not a safe country for Bangladesh. No matter what the ICC, BJP or BCCI say,” Latif said.
Latif also called on the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to act decisively. “This is the time for Pakistan to do something. There won’t be a better opportunity. If Pakistan joins Bangladesh and refuses to play, this World Cup is finished,” he added.
Addressing concerns about financial losses from a potential boycott, Latif dismissed the argument, saying major decisions require sacrifices. “When you take a big stand, you have to stop worrying about ICC funding. Bangladesh has shown this. South African cricket did not collapse after being banned for 21 years,” he said.
Latif reiterated his stance on social media platform X, questioning whether the PCB dares to take a similar position.
“The Bangladesh Cricket Board has refused to play in India, calling it unsafe for Bangladeshi cricketers. Despite limited strength, Bangladesh has challenged the ICC while upholding its traditions. Does the Pakistan Cricket Board have the ability to take a similar stand?” he wrote.
