Champions Trophy 2025: India Made ICC Event A Joke, Says Pakistan Cricketer Board Chairman

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, has begun discussions with senior government officials following the International Cricket Council's (ICC) notification about India's refusal to visit Pakistan for the Champions Trophy next year. The PCB confirmed receiving an email from the ICC regarding India's decision, despite Naqvi previously rejecting a 'Hybrid Model'.

"Mohsin Naqvi, who is the federal interior minister, is in touch with government officials and the wait is now on what directives the Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif gives," a PCB official said. The official expressed disappointment over India's stance despite Pakistan promising full-scale security for the visitors during the ICC showpiece.

Security Assurances and Financial Concerns

The PCB official stated that preparations for the event are progressing as planned. They have assured the ICC of top-notch security arrangements for all teams, including India. The official acknowledged potential financial losses if Pakistan decides to boycott matches against India but mentioned they are ready for such outcomes.

Speculation in Pakistan suggests that the government might instruct the PCB to cease playing against India in any ICC or multi-team events starting with the Champions Trophy unless India's policy changes. There are also reports that Pakistan may raise concerns about India mixing politics with sports with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) if they choose to boycott future encounters.

Reactions from Former Players

Pakistan's cricket community reacted strongly to India's decision. Former Test captain Rashid Latif urged the PCB to make a firm statement. "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," Latif said.

Javed Miandad, another former Test captain, suggested boycotting matches with India. "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," he said. "I would like to see how the ICC events earn money when there are no Pakistan and India matches," Miandad added.

Historical Context and Hospitality

India has not sent its cricket team to Pakistan since the 2008 Asia Cup. However, Pakistan has travelled to India for a bilateral white-ball series in 2012-13, participated in the T20 World Cup in 2016, and last year attended the 50-over World Cup.

Former Test captain Inzamam ul Haq also expressed his disappointment over India's decision. "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," he said.

Politics and Sports

Former Test batsman Mohsin Khan advised against mixing politics with sports. "I mean does the Indian government really believe there is any threat to their team in Pakistan? But I would advise on remaining calm before making any decision," he noted.

The situation remains tense as both nations navigate their political and sporting relations amidst these developments.