PCB Awaits ICC’s Response on India’s Stance Regarding Champions Trophy 2025
PCB Awaits ICC's Clarity on India’s Participation in Champions Trophy
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is still awaiting clarity from the International Cricket Council (ICC) on India’s reluctance to travel to Pakistan for the upcoming Champions Trophy, scheduled for February 2025. Despite seeking a written response a week ago, the PCB has yet to receive any official communication from the ICC or the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
PCB’s Queries to the ICC
The PCB, led by chairman Mohsin Naqvi, submitted questions to the ICC seeking transparency on the BCCI’s decision and the exact timeline when it conveyed its stance to the ICC. Speaking at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, Naqvi expressed disappointment over the delay but maintained optimism regarding Pakistan hosting the tournament, the first ICC event in the country since 1996.
“We have sent them [ICC] the questions we had. We are still waiting for their response. I believe that sports and politics are separate and no country should mix the two. Even now I still have positive expectations about the Champions Trophy,” Naqvi stated.
PCB Firm on Hosting, Open to Dialogue
The PCB reiterated its rejection of a hybrid hosting model but showed willingness to engage with the BCCI to address concerns. Naqvi emphasized the participation of all qualified teams except India, which has raised objections.
“At this moment, every team that has qualified for the Champions Trophy is ready to come. Nobody has any issues. If India has any concerns, speak to us about them. I don’t think there is any reason for them not to visit,” Naqvi said.
When asked about the possibility of boycotting the event if hosting rights are removed, Naqvi prioritized Pakistan’s national pride and questioned the ICC’s credibility.
“My feeling is that the ICC will have to think about its credibility—are they an organisation for all the world’s bodies?”
Trophy Tour Alterations
The Champions Trophy trophy tour began in Islamabad on Saturday but faced alterations after objections from the BCCI. The PCB had initially planned to showcase the trophy in Muzaffarabad, Pakistan Administered Kashmir, but the ICC modified the route following BCCI’s complaints.
While the Muzaffarabad leg was removed from the initial schedule, Naqvi clarified that it has not been canceled and is expected to return to the country in January 2025, after touring the seven other participant nations.
“That route has been rescheduled; we haven’t been told about any cancellation,” Naqvi said.
PCB Pushes for Tournament Schedule
Naqvi urged the ICC to finalize the Champions Trophy schedule soon to allow the PCB sufficient time for preparations. Despite the ongoing uncertainties, Naqvi conveyed confidence in Pakistan’s readiness to host the event and facilitate discussions with all stakeholders to ensure its success.
