The Pakistan men’s cricket team found themselves embroiled in controversy before their 2024 T20 World Cup campaign even began. Allegedly, the team hosted a ‘private dinner’ in the United States, inviting fans for a ‘meet and greet’ with an entry fee of 25 US dollars. This event took place just before Pakistan’s campaign opener against the hosts, the United States of America, which has stirred agitation among former cricketers from the country.
Former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif shared his discontent on social media, expressing his concerns in a widely circulated video. Latif criticized the event, questioning the appropriateness and potential risks associated with such private gatherings.
“There are official dinners, but this is a private dinner. Who can do this? It’s terrible. That means you met our players for 25 dollars. God forbid, had there been a mess, people would have said the boys are earning money,” Rashid Latif remarked.
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Rashid Latif further commented on the trend of monetizing player appearances, noting a shift from his playing days.
Let’s Save The Star & Be Stars
Unofficial Private Dinner During WC24#T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/BXEgPyA2p2— Rashid Latif | 🇵🇰 (@iRashidLatif68) June 4, 2024
“People tell me that whoever calls the Pakistan players, they just ask, ‘how much money will you give?’ This has become common. Things were different in our time; we had 2-3 dinners, but they were official. This is highlighted because it’s the World Cup. The players should be careful. The amount of 25 dollars shouldn’t be used like this. You attend 2-3 dinners, but without the commercial angle. You can go for charity dinners and fundraisers, but this is neither fundraising nor a charity dinner. This is a private function with the name of Pakistan and Pakistan cricket associated with it. Don’t make this mistake,” he warned.
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Despite the controversy, Pakistan will be looking to build on their recent success as they open their World Cup campaign against the USA. After a mixed run, including a T20 International loss in Ireland and a 0-2 defeat in England, Pakistan regained confidence with a convincing seven-wicket win against Canada in the tournament opener at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas on Thursday. As they head into their next match, the team will aim to focus on the game and leave the off-field issues behind.
