Rashid Latif Backs Khawaja Nafay as Pakistan’s Wicket-Keeper for T20 World Cup 2026

In the high-octane world of T20 cricket, timing is everything—both on the pitch and in selection meetings. As the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) finalizes its roadmap for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, a significant endorsement has emerged from one of the country’s most respected cricketing voices.

Former captain and wicket-keeping legend Rashid Latif has thrown his full weight behind youngster Khawaja Nafay, calling for his inclusion not just as a batter, but as a wicket-keeper for the upcoming mega-event. This endorsement comes hot on the heels of Nafay’s electric international debut against Sri Lanka in Dambulla, a performance that has reignited debates about Pakistan’s ideal combination for the World Cup.

The Spark in Dambulla: A Debut to Remember

Sunday’s third T20I between Pakistan and Sri Lanka at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium was far from a standard affair. Rain reduced the contest to a frantic 12-overs-per-side shootout, a format that leaves no room for nerves or sighters.

Chasing a daunting target of 161 (an asking rate of over 13 runs per over), Pakistan needed immediate firepower. Enter Khawaja Nafay. Making his debut in a pressure-cooker environment, the right-hander displayed a temperament far beyond his years.

Nafay smashed a brisk 26 off just 15 balls, showcasing clean bat-swing and an ability to clear the ropes against high-quality spin and pace. While Pakistan eventually fell short by 14 runs, finishing at 146-8, Nafay’s fearless approach stood out as a beacon of hope in a middle order that has often been accused of stagnation.

Rashid Latif’s Verdict: “Khawaja Nafay for WC 26”

Rashid Latif, known for his sharp eye for talent and deeper understanding of wicket-keeping mechanics, wasted no time in making his opinion public. Taking to the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Latif lauded the team’s fighting spirit and specifically singled out Nafay.

“Captain played well tonight. Khawaja Nafey Wicket Keeper for WC 26,” Latif wrote.

This statement is significant for several reasons:

1. The Dual Role: By explicitly tagging him as a “Wicket Keeper,” Latif is suggesting a structural change in the team balance. Pakistan has heavily relied on Mohammad Rizwan and occasionally others for this role. Latif’s comment implies that Nafay offers a modern, aggressive alternative that fits the “power-hitting keeper” mold popularized by players like Heinrich Klaasen or Jos Buttler.
2. Backing Youth: Latif has long been an advocate for integrating fearless youth over safe, conservative options. His endorsement suggests he sees Nafay as a match-winner, not just a squad filler.

The “Modern T20” Approach: Why Nafay Fits the Bill

Khawaja Nafay’s rise has been unconventional. First spotted via Facebook videos by Quetta Gladiators management, he made a name for himself in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) and Pakistan Super League (PSL) before donning the national colors.

His batting philosophy is built on the modern tenets of T20 cricket: minimize dot balls and maximize impact. In his debut innings of 26 (15), he struck at a strike rate of 173.33, a metric that is gold dust for a team often criticized for slow starts.

Key Attributes:

• 360-Degree Play: Nafay is strong square of the wicket and isn’t afraid to use the pace of the bowler, a trait essential for success in Sri Lankan conditions where the World Cup will be played.
• Fearlessness: Walking out to bat when the required rate is 14+ is a nightmare for debutants. Nafay treated it like another day at the office, a mindset Pakistan desperately needs in knockout games.
• Wicket-Keeping Utility: While primarily known as a batter in franchise leagues, his ability to keep wickets allows Pakistan to play an extra bowler or all-rounder, offering the captain tactical flexibility.

Match Recap: A 12-Over Thriller

The context of Nafay’s performance adds to its weight. The series decider in Dambulla was reduced to 12 overs, essentially turning it into a T10-style slugfest.

Sri Lanka’s Onslaught: Batting first, the hosts were ruthless. Captain Dasun Shanaka played a captain’s knock, blasting 34 off just 9 balls, including five towering sixes. He was well supported by Kusal Mendis (30 off 16) and a late flurry from Dhananjaya de Silva and Charith Asalanka. Sri Lanka posted an imposing 160-6.

Pakistan’s Fightback: Pakistan’s response was led by their own skipper, Salman Ali Agha. proving his mettle as a leader who leads from the front, Agha top-scored with a stunning 45 off 12 balls, laced with five fours and three sixes.

• The Partnership: Agha and Saim Ayub gave Pakistan a flying start, but the introduction of Wanindu Hasaranga turned the tide. The Sri Lankan spinner spun a web, claiming 4-35, dismantling Pakistan’s middle order.
• Nafay’s Resistance: Amidst the falling wickets, Nafay held his own, keeping the chase alive until the dying stages.
• The Result: Pakistan finished on 146-8, losing by 14 runs and drawing the series 1-1.

The Road Ahead: Selection Dilemmas

With the World Cup squad deadline looming on January 31, the selectors face a “good headache.” The emergence of Khawaja Nafay adds a new dimension to the selection table.

The Competitors:

• Mohammad Rizwan: The established senior pro. Reliable, but questions often arise regarding his strike rate in the middle overs.
• Usman Khan: Another aggressive option who has been in and out of the side.
• Khawaja Nafay: The wildcard. Untested but high-ceiling potential.

If the PCB heeds Rashid Latif’s advice, we could see Nafay being fast-tracked into the World Cup squad, potentially even taking the gloves to allow for a more aggressive batting lineup.

Conclusion: A Bold Call for a Bold Future

Rashid Latif’s call to make Khawaja Nafay the wicket-keeper for the World Cup is not just a suggestion; it’s a statement of intent. It signifies a desire to move away from conservative cricket and embrace the volatility and excitement of the modern game.

Nafay has shown he has the hands and the heart for the big stage. As Pakistan prepares to host Australia later this month before heading to the World Cup, all eyes will be on whether the selectors are brave enough to gamble on this “Facebook find” turned international star.

For Pakistan cricket fans, the hope is simple: that the fearless energy seen in Dambulla is carried forward to the World Cup in 2026.