Amid the ongoing dispute between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over the hosting of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed confidence that the tournament will proceed as planned in Pakistan. The tension arises from India’s decision not to tour Pakistan for the eight-team event, prompting the PCB to seek clarification from the International Cricket Council (ICC).
PCB Pushes for ICC’s Action
Speaking to local media on Monday, Naqvi emphasized the importance of separating politics from sports and called on the ICC to uphold its credibility by addressing the situation. “We have written to the ICC and are waiting for a response. Sports and politics should not be mixed. I am confident the Champions Trophy will be held in Pakistan as planned,” Naqvi stated.
Naqvi further highlighted the significance of equal rights for all ICC member nations, saying, “No one can give us a tough time. Each ICC member has its own rights, and things cannot work this way. We expect a positive outcome regarding the Champions Trophy.”
Urging Dialogue with India
Addressing India’s refusal to participate, Naqvi encouraged the BCCI to engage in open discussions to resolve their concerns. He noted that other teams slated to participate—South Africa, England, Australia, New Zealand, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh—have no objections to traveling to Pakistan.
“If India has any concerns, they should discuss them with us. There’s no valid reason for them to decline participation,” he added. Naqvi also urged the ICC to release the tournament schedule promptly, stating that it would allow Pakistan to finalize preparations for venues in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Karachi.
Champions Trophy Preparations Underway
The ICC recently launched the Champions Trophy tour, which began in Islamabad on November 16. The trophy is expected to travel to India on January 15 and remain there until January 26. Pakistan, the defending champions from the 2017 tournament, will host the event, with participation from India and other top cricketing nations.
Naqvi reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to ensuring the tournament’s success and readiness to address logistical challenges, saying, “The ICC needs to act swiftly to announce the schedule so we can prepare our stadiums accordingly.”
Historic Rivalry Continues
The unresolved political tensions between India and Pakistan have prevented bilateral cricket series since 2012. India last visited Pakistan in 2008 for the Asia Cup, while Pakistan triumphed over India in the 2017 Champions Trophy final. Despite the strained relations, cricket fans around the world hope the tournament will proceed smoothly, showcasing the sport’s ability to transcend political boundaries.
