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KABUL (PAN): The main reason for Afghan cricketers' consistent success in the ICC Intercontinental Cup is their strong self belief and mental prowess, according to national coach Rashid Latif.
Afghanistan was poised for a title-winning performance in the final of the ICC Intercontinental Cup against Scotland at the Dubai Sports City Stadium early next month, he said in an interview.
"There are many reasons for Afghanistan's success … Most important thing is that they hate to lose. They are mentally very tough and have a lot of self belief," said Latif in the interview on the ICC website.
Hoping to use his experience as an international player in his role as coach, Latif is seeking to hone his side's tactical skills during his stint as head coach. "The team is mentally and physically very good."
The former Pakistan wicketkeeper believed Afghan cricketers needed improved technical and tactical skills. Concurrently focused on building a reserve bench, the coach said he was happy to note his squad gelling well.
He viewed the ICC Intercontinental Cup against Scotland as a litmus test for the team and himself, saying his side was ready for the challenge. Although Afghanistan defeated Scotland in the league round, Latif believed that result would have no bearing on the final.
The coach hoped Afghanistan's main performers -- fast bowler Hamid Hassan and batsman Mohammad Shahzad who topped the charts this year -- would continue their consistent run. "Both are team players and play for the team. They do not focus on individual performances."
All praise for the leadership skills of skipper Nawroz Mangal, Latif said: "I think he is a born leader. He has been doing well in the last three-four years. The players and management respect him a lot which is a key point for any player/captain."
Winning the ICC Intercontinental Cup would be a crowning glory for a country that has not had no cause for cheer because of three decades of war "They have lost two generations to war. Cricket is now the only hope for Afghans."
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