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Ban "blessing in disguise for Sourav"

Former Pak captain Rashid Latif feels the six-match ban on Sourav Ganguly would help the Indian skipper regain confidence and form.

Published on: Apr 14, 2005, 10:52:00 IST
PTI | By , Karachi
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Former Pakistani captain Rashid Latif on Wednesday said the six-match ban on Sourav Ganguly would help the Indian skipper regain lost confidence and form.

HT Image
HT Image

"I think its a blessing in disguise for Sourav. If he had not been banned, he should have taken time off from cricket to regain the confidence.

"Although the scenario of the rest may not be according to what he (Sourav Ganguly) would have thought, but I think it would help him regain the lost form, confidence and command," Latif said during a visit to his cricket academy which will spring into action in June.

Ganguly was banned for slow over rate after the Ahmedabad One-Day International which Pakistan won on the last ball by three wickets.

Ganguly is currently passing through his worst batting forms and has failed in the Test as well as one-day series against the arch rivals.

"It happens to every cricketer. But he (Ganguly) should find a way out and instead of continuously returning to nets, he should give his body and mind a break. It will help him tremendously.

"The saying 'form is temporary but class is permanent' definitely fits into Sourav at the moment. He needs support and confidence boosting from his players, media and public and I am sure things will fall in the right place," the 35-year-old said.

Commenting on Pakistan's memorable victory, Latif said Pakistan should have won in 43 overs.

"Nevertheless, they clinically finished off the Indians and now they look unstoppable. I think they would emerge comfortable winners from the last two games.

"Inzamam-ul-Haq has proved to be the jewel in Pakistan team's crown. He has faced tough times with severe criticism but it happens to be the best players. I am happy that Inzamam has silenced his critics with marvellous performances. The best he has done is to let his bat answer the critics," Latif said.

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