Champions Trophy: PCB Chief Naqvi urges BCCI to address concerns directly
Pakistan will host the Champions Trophy from February 19 to March 9, 2025, marking its return after winning the 2017 edition in England. However, tensions persist as India, due to strained political relations, has not visited Pakistan since 2008. The two nations now only face each other in multi-nation events.
Last year, India played the Asia Cup in Sri Lanka under a “hybrid model,” which allowed their participation without visiting Pakistan.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) informed Pakistan’s Cricket Board (PCB) last week that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had confirmed India’s decision not to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy.
The ICC is set to announce the full schedule by November 20, with all matches to take place in Rawalpindi, Karachi, and Lahore.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi addressed the situation at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, expressing confidence that the tournament would be safely hosted in Pakistan. When asked about India’s concerns, Naqvi emphasized that politics should not interfere with sports and urged India to engage in direct talks if they had any issues. He stated, “If India has any concern, they should come and talk to us, and we will alleviate their concerns.”
Naqvi also mentioned that the ICC had yet to finalize the schedule, and the PCB was waiting for their response regarding the “hybrid model.” He pointed out that all other qualified teams had no objections to traveling to Pakistan.
“The ICC should think about its credibility as a governing body,” Naqvi added, stressing that Pakistan was fully committed to hosting the event.
Meanwhile, the Champions Trophy trophy was showcased in Islamabad at landmarks like Daman-e-Koh, Faisal Mosque, and Pakistan Monument. The PCB also confirmed the appointment of Aqib Javed as interim head coach for white-ball formats, following speculation about a coaching change.
As the tournament approaches, the PCB is eager for a resolution and final schedule so it can make necessary arrangements. The outcome will heavily depend on India’s decision and the ICC’s handling of the situation.
