Latif sees Younis more effective in coaching role

By Muhammad Asif Khan

KARACHI: After getting dropped from the Champions Trophy squad, the one-day international career of the former skipper, Younis Khan has probably reached at a decisive juncture. The veteran batsman might be in a dilemma, but his close friend and another former captain, Rashid Latif is categorical on this matter, and feels that Younis Khan should call it a day in the ODI cricket.

“Younis has been a wonderful player for Pakistan, but has crossed his prime. It’s high time for him [Younis] to retire from ODIs”, said Rashid Latif, while talking to this correspondent.

“I see an ideal coach in Younis and there is no harm in appointing him as Pakistan’s assistant coach, who can take over when Whatmore leaves”, adds Latif

Younis Khan, 35, has already acquired a level-two coaching course, conducted by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore a few years back.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is also in search of a full-time batting coach for national team and it is reported that the appointment was likely to be made before the upcoming Champions Trophy, scheduled in England later this year.

“I think Younis should be appointed as assistant coach before the Champions Trophy. His stature and experience would come handy for the team.”, concludes Latif.

The writer is a sports journalist in Pakistan, heads the sports department at News One TV & tweets @mak_asif