Pakistan is expected to adopt a tough stance following India’s official refusal to send its cricket team to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 next year. Pakistan’s government has decided to take a firm stance on the issue.
Reliable sources within the government have confirmed that Pakistan may not play against India in any international event unless India reciprocates visiting Pakistan for any ICC event.
Instead of accommodating India, Pakistan is considering a strict stance on India’s attempt to politicize sports. PCB has received a letter from the International Cricket Council informing PCB of India’s formal refusal to send its cricket team to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, citing security reasons. Consequently, the ICC has announced that it will delay finalizing the schedule for the Champions Trophy.
Originally, the Champions Trophy schedule was set to be announced on 11 November 2024, during a formal event. However, due to India’s stance, the ICC has indicated the need for further deliberations, pushing back the announcement.
As per the sources in the media, the government has signaled PCB not to accept a hybrid model for India.
“Pakistan may consider any option on matters related to the ICC Champions Trophy entirely if necessary,” the sources added.
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“If India’s participation contributes to ICC’s revenue, the PCB’s role is equally crucial, and without Pakistan-India matches, the ICC revenues would suffer significantly.”
Indian media cites the political situation as the reason behind India’s refusal to send its team to Pakistan. However, Pakistan sent its team to India for the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023. Indian media states that Pakistan can even approach International arbitration and courts on the matter.
Indian Cricket Board has proposed a hybrid model allowing the Indian cricket team to play all its matches in Dubai. However, Chairman Mohsin Naqvi refused to accept a hybrid model.
The government may even ban Pakistan from playing India in any event in the future. The bilateral series has already been suspended between both countries for more than a decade now.
“Pakistan will not back down on hosting the Champions Trophy,” said a senior government official, emphasizing Pakistan’s preparations. “If India does not participate, we will pursue all available options. Our stadiums and security meet international standards, leaving no valid reason for India’s absence,” the source added.
The ICC Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9th, 2025 in which eight international teams will participate.