“Are They Playing Blindfolded?” Rashid Latif’s Bold Claim Sparks On-Air Rebuttal After India’s Dominant Win

New Delhi: With the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2026 underway, verbal volleys have begun off the field as well. Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif stirred controversy by claiming that Pakistan could defeat India later in the tournament — despite suffering a crushing 61-run defeat in the group stage.

However, his optimism did not go unchallenged. Renowned Pakistani journalist Nauman Niaz openly dismissed Latif’s remarks during a television discussion, calling them unrealistic and overly ambitious.

India’s Commanding Performance

In their earlier encounter in Colombo, India delivered a clinical performance. Powered by a blistering 77-run knock from Ishan Kishan, India posted a formidable total. The bowling unit, led by Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah, dismantled Pakistan’s batting lineup with precision.

The victory further strengthened India’s historic dominance over Pakistan in World Cup clashes, improving the head-to-head record to 8-1.

Latif Predicts a Turnaround

Despite the heavy defeat, Latif expressed confidence that Pakistan would not only reach the semifinals but could also avenge the loss against India.

“Pakistan’s chances of making the semifinal look quite strong. Be ready for the semifinal — another player is coming. India and Pakistan will meet twice more in this tournament, and we will win the next match,” Latif asserted during the TV show.

Tournament permutations suggest that since both teams are placed in different Super 8 groups, they cannot meet at this stage. However, a semifinal clash remains possible if India tops its group and Pakistan qualifies in second place. A potential final on March 8 also keeps the prospect alive.

Journalist Pushes Back

Nauman Niaz strongly countered Latif’s remarks, expressing frustration over what he described as misplaced confidence.

“I cannot tolerate another humiliating defeat. Enough is enough. Are they going to play blindfolded? Rashid sahib, at this hour of the night, you are talking nonsense,” Niaz responded sharply.

His reaction reflected growing concern among Pakistani cricket observers following the comprehensive loss to India.

The Road Ahead

While rhetoric continues to dominate studio discussions, the real test lies on the field. For Pakistan, consistency and composure will be key if they hope to script a comeback. For India, maintaining momentum and discipline will remain the priority.

With high stakes and historic rivalry at play, the possibility of another India-Pakistan encounter later in the tournament ensures that anticipation — and debate — will only intensify in the coming days.