Since 1996, Pakistan hasn’t hosted any ICC tournament, but the Champions Trophy 2025 may change everything. However, the path to hosting the CT looks difficult for now, especially since the BCCI has clearly conveyed to the ICC and PCB that the Indian cricket team will not travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025. Although the Men in Blue are ready to play under a hybrid model, as playing matches in Pakistan will not suit them. Now, just after the clarification from the BCCI, discussions and criticism have started in Pakistan, especially from former players who initially thought there would be no issue hosting a full-fledged Champions Trophy in their homeland. But now, things look a little difficult for Pakistan to host the entire tournament. As mentioned, many big former names are commenting on the BCCI’s actions and their reluctance to send India to play in the Champions Trophy. See what Pakistan’s greats are saying.
Ex-Pak cricketers on BCCI
“It is a joke that this is happening. Even if we don’t play India at all, Pakistan cricket will not only survive but prosper as well as we have shown in the past,” Javed Miandad was quoted as saying by PTI.
“They are depriving cricket of such a big occasion. There is no threat to the Indian team in Pakistan. In fact, they would get the best hospitality here,” PTI quoted Inzamam-ul-Haq as saying.
“Wherever cricket is played in the world, it won’t be complete without an India vs Pakistan match…Both ICC and the broadcaster know this,” said former Pakistan batsman Basit Ali on his YouTube channel.
Former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif showed his frustration by saying “Enough is enough. When all teams are playing in Pakistan without any problem, this decision by India is purely political and that should be unacceptable in all sports including cricket.”
Will India travel to Pakistan for Champions Trophy?
From Mohammad Hafeez to Javed Miandad, everyone is taking a dig at the BCCI’s plans. Now, it looks very clear that India is not going to Pakistan and will push for a hybrid model. Even before the decision was made, the last few weeks saw many developments, with reports suggesting that the ICC would assess the PCB’s stance on the hybrid model and whether they are open to shifting games to the UAE or another part of the world. However, the Pakistan Cricket Board seems unwilling to move from their original position, making it difficult for the ICC to decide on the future of the Champions Trophy 2025. Recently, the ICC cancelled the Champions Trophy event scheduled for 11 November. It will be interesting to see how things goes.
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