Latif dimisses suggestions he should step down

Rashid Latif has dismissed criticism of his captaincy style, amid demands that he resigns as Pakistan captain.

Returning to Karachi after a month's holiday with his family, Latif was adamant that he has no intention of quitting. "I have read the criticism aimed at my style of captaincy, my age and performance and demands for appointing a new captain," he told the International News. "I just want to make it clear I have no intention of either stepping down as captain or quitting international cricket just now.

"On one hand they are demanding the recall of some senior players. On the other hand they want the board to appoint a young and new captain for the future as they feel Rashid is old," he continued. "Pakistan cricket will go nowhere if you have an inexperienced and young captain. One has to groom a captain for a long-term future.

"I will continue to play as long as I feel I am fit and am contributing to the team. I have no injury problems. I am mentally stronger and ready to play Test cricket again. I can stand the rigours of both forms of cricket. Age is not really an issue with me but it is made an issue in Pakistan. But I think if you are holding onto your place in the team on merit and through performances, you deserve to play on."

Latif then dropped a hint that some of the discarded older players might be in line for a recall. "I have in mind roles for some of the senior players in the coming matches. But it is something that has to be discussed with the national selectors. There is no doubt some of the players who served us well in the one-day tournaments will find it difficult to get places in a Test squad."

Latif went on to warn against complacency in the forthcoming three-Test, five-ODI series against Bangladesh which starts on August 13. "Don't write them off," he said. "Their record until now is not exactly impressive. But after playing against Australia I think they will be a changed and improved side."