The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has firmly opposed India’s refusal to send its national team to Pakistan for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, which is scheduled for February-March. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed disappointment over the lack of response from the International Cricket Council (ICC) regarding India’s stance.
Earlier this month, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) communicated to the ICC that it wants its matches to be hosted in a neutral venue, citing concerns about playing in Pakistan. Naqvi asserted that the PCB rejects the proposed hybrid model advocated by the BCCI, calling for clarity on why India is unwilling to travel to Pakistan.
PCB Stands Firm Against Hybrid Model
Naqvi made it clear that Pakistan will not entertain the hybrid model, emphasizing the country’s pride and sovereignty. Speaking to reporters outside Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, he said, “The Champions Trophy will be held in Pakistan, and we will not compromise on this. If India has concerns, they should discuss them with us, and we will address them.”
The PCB has already written to the ICC, seeking clarification and a resolution to the matter. Naqvi further noted that Pakistan has not hosted India since the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, but added that there is no valid reason for India to avoid playing in Pakistan this time.
ICC’s Role in Resolving the Dispute
Naqvi urged the ICC to uphold its credibility as a global governing body by ensuring fairness in its decisions. He dismissed concerns about potential complications once Jay Shah, BCCI secretary, assumed the role of ICC chairman in December, insisting that every cricket board operates independently.
Naqvi also sidestepped questions about whether the hybrid model would eventually be considered or whether Muzaffarabad, in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, would remain part of the Champions Trophy tour following objections from the BCCI. He emphasized that the PCB is focused on preparing for the event, with construction work at stadiums in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi ahead of schedule. The PCB now awaits the ICC’s response to finalize the tournament arrangements.
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