Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has made a stunning revelation calling the side to boycott the Champions Trophy 2025, which was scheduled to be played in Pakistan next year.
With the tournament’s future uncertain due to BCCI and PCB’s reluctance on their stance, the ICC has come in to resolve the issues and suggested Pakistan adopt a Hybrid model for the tournament.
BCCI has confirmed India’s refusal to travel to the country for the tournament, citing security reasons. It was followed by PCB’s denial to accept BCCI’s proposed hybrid model before eventually succumbing.
Pakistan accepted ICC’s proposal under several conditions if it is followed for all multi-national tournaments in India until 2031.
Rashid Latif feels Pakistan must boycott the champions Trophy and said, “Champions Trophy shouldn’t happen anymore. You should say no before they refuse. We have always been made scapegoats, be it Afghan war or cricket.”
“PCB, ACB, and ICC are the same as they can’t fight against the BCCI. They have the chance to push Pakistan to the front. We have joined hands and are fighting against it, but the only fear is that if India boycotts, where do we stand.”
Pakistan was the winner of the Champions Trophy in 2017, defeating India in the final by 180 runs at The Oval. Meanwhile, the hybrid model was followed during during last year’s Asia Cup in Pakistan with India playing their games in Sri Lanka.
It has been over a decade and a half since the India men’s side last played an international game in Pakistan.
India hasn’t travelled to Pakistan since 2008 Asia Cup when India suffered defeat in Asia Cup finals against Sri Lanka. However, the rivals have been clashing in ICC and ACC events over the years.
Their last meeting comes from T20 World Cup 2024 group stages where India pulled off a thrilling six-run victory in New York.
