Former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif, celebrated as one of the finest wicket-keepers in the game, is also known for his candid and often unconventional takes on cricket. However, few are aware of Latif’s deep-rooted connection to India. In a video that recently surfaced on social media, Latif proudly spoke about his Indian heritage, revealing his family’s origins in Uttar Pradesh (UP) before his father migrated to Pakistan in the 1950s.
Latif shared that nearly 90% of his family still resides in Sultanpur, UP, and even mentioned having a half-brother, Shahid, who chose to remain in India and built a career working for a newspaper in Kolkata.
“Leaving the country doesn’t mean we forget our people. Our color will still remain blue, won’t it? One of my brothers lives in Sultanpur, and 90% of my family is there. The British didn’t call Uttar Pradesh the ‘Upper Province’ for nothing,” Latif said in the video, emphasizing his pride in his Indian roots.
Latif went on to praise Uttar Pradesh for producing individuals known for their political acumen, sharp intellect, and even colorful language.
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“In politics, intelligence, and even abuses, Uttar Pradesh is number one. That’s where we come from, so it’s better not to mess with us,” he quipped with a mix of humor and pride.
The video not only shed light on Latif’s familial ties but also highlighted his fondness for the state that shaped much of his heritage.
