Lahore, November 18, 2024- Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has invited India to share its concerns regarding participation in the Champions Trophy 2025, assuring that Pakistan is prepared to address any reservations.
Speaking at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, Naqvi, who also serves as Pakistan’s interior minister, said: “If India has concerns, it should inform us, and we will address its reservations.”
India has reportedly declined to travel to Pakistan for the tournament, despite Islamabad’s history of accommodating similar situations. The PCB maintains its firm stance on hosting the event, noting that multiple international teams have visited Pakistan for matches in recent years.
Naqvi confirmed that the PCB is in direct communication with the International Cricket Council (ICC), which is now grappling with limited options following India’s decision. “We are committed to hosting the Champions Trophy in Pakistan as planned,” he stated.
The PCB chairman reiterated the need to keep sports separate from politics, emphasizing, “Sports and politics are entirely distinct matters.” He also called for the ICC to promptly finalize and announce the tournament schedule to allow Pakistan adequate time for preparations.
In response to objections from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the ICC has revised the Champions Trophy tour itinerary for Pakistan. The updated plan replaces earlier locations like Muzaffarabad, Hunza, and Skardu with new stops, including Taxila, Khanpur, Abbottabad, Nathia Gali, and Karachi.
Naqvi assured that the tournament remains on track despite scheduling adjustments, saying, “The Champions Trophy tour has not been cancelled but rescheduled. We remain dedicated to hosting the event successfully.”
The PCB awaits further clarification from the ICC regarding India’s participation and the final schedule, reaffirming its commitment to delivering a memorable tournament.
