Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has criticized India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, emphasizing the principle of equality in cricket relations. Speaking at a press conference on November 28, Naqvi highlighted the imbalance in Pakistan traveling to India for the 2023 ODI World Cup while India remains reluctant to play in Pakistan.
Naqvi reiterated that Pakistan is committed to hosting the entire Champions Trophy within its borders and dismissed the notion of adopting a hybrid model, which would involve staging matches at neutral venues. “I promise we’ll do what is best for Pakistan cricket,” Naqvi stated, adding that he is in regular communication with ICC officials to resolve the issue.
Key Points from Naqvi’s Statement:
- Stance on Equality: Naqvi stressed that it is unacceptable for Pakistan to play in India if India refuses to reciprocate. “Whatever happens, will happen on the basis of equality,” he said.
- Communication with ICC: The PCB remains in ongoing discussions with ICC leadership to secure Pakistan’s hosting rights without compromise.
- No Official Response from BCCI: Naqvi confirmed that the PCB has yet to receive formal communication from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) about its decision.
- Commitment to Security: The PCB has offered robust security assurances to address concerns, reiterating its capacity to host international tournaments safely.
Upcoming ICC Board Meeting
The ICC Board is set to meet on November 29 to address the Champions Trophy situation and finalize the tournament’s schedule. The impasse over India’s participation has delayed fixture announcements for the marquee eight-team event.
Background and Context
The PCB holds exclusive hosting rights for the Champions Trophy, marking the first ICC tournament scheduled in Pakistan since 1996. However, strained political ties between India and Pakistan have historically disrupted bilateral cricketing relations, with both sides typically meeting only in ICC or ACC events.
Pakistan’s Firm Stance
Naqvi’s rejection of a hybrid model and his insistence on hosting the entire tournament underscore Pakistan’s determination to uphold its rights. “Whatever we do, we will make sure the best outcome for Pakistan is achieved,” he concluded. The PCB’s position sets the stage for a pivotal ICC decision that could have significant implications for the tournament and broader cricketing diplomacy.
