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Latif hampered by groin strain but upbeat on victory
Pakistan skipper Rashid Latif was delighted Saturday that his young team had started the tri-series campaign on a winning note beating host Sri Lanka by 79 runs.
Pakistan skipper Rashid Latif was delighted Saturday that his young team had started the tri-series campaign on a winning note beating host Sri Lanka by 79 runs.
Latif said that his young team had proved that a title win in Sharjah last month was a true reflection of its ability. Pakistan is rebuilding after a disastrous first round exit from the World Cup and has just six of that squad in the current line-up. "Today we showed the cricketing world that this young team is able to compete with anyone on even terms," said Latif, Pakistan scored 199 for eight and then bowled Sri Lanka out for 120 to win the opening match of the tri-series which also involves New Zealand.
Latif had to leave the field toward the end of the Sri Lankan innings due to a groin strain.
"I'm still feeling a lot of pain but hopefully will recover in time for the Sunday's match," Latif said.
Pakistan plays New Zealand in the second match of the series which involves a double-leg preliminary league. The top two teams will meet in the final.
Latif was planning to end his international career after the World Cup earlier this year but agreed to stay on to help shape the Pakistan team for the future.
