Former Pakistani Cricketer Shahid Afridi believes and opined that India should drop its ego and travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy next year.
Shahid Afridi took X to appeal to all nations to attend the ICC event in Pakistan. This comes after BCCI’s refusal to travel Pakistan as they informed ICC that India will not be touring Pakistan due to security reasons.
The Pakistan Cricket Board has acknowledged the neighbouring countries decision but has rejected the idea of a hybrid model, insisting on hosting the entire tournament in Pakistan which has cast doubt on tournament’s future.
On this occasion, Afridi has urged cricket administrators to priortize the spirit of the game. He even cited Olympics as an example and for egos to be set asde to ensure the successful conduct of the tournament.
“Cricket is at a crucial crossroads, facing perhaps one of its greatest challenges since the late 1970s. Now is the time to put differences aside and let the game unite us. If countries once divided by history can come together in the Olympic spirit, why can’t we do the same for cricket – and for the Champions Trophy?” Afridi wrote in his post on X.
Cricket is at a crucial crossroads, facing perhaps one of its greatest challenges since the late 1970s. Now is the time to put differences aside and let the game unite us. If countries once divided by history can come together in the Olympic spirit, why can’t we do the same for…
— Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) November 13, 2024
“As stewards of this game, we owe it to cricket to keep egos in check and focus on its growth and spirit. I hope to see every team in Pakistan for CT25, to experience our warmth and hospitality, and to leave with unforgettable memories that transcend the field,” his post further read.
India last toured Pakistan in 2008 to play Asia Cup. Since then, the two nations have not played any bilateral series on each other’s soil and have met only on ICC events only.
The 2023 Asia Cup which was set to be played in Pakistan has been changed into hybrid model with India playing their matches in Sri Lanka.
As per the proposed schedule, Champions Trophy 2025 is tenatively scheduled to take place from February 19 – March 09. The tournament will feature eight teams Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, Pakistan, New Zealand and South Africa.
After ICC informed PCB about India’s stance, PCB has consulted with Pakistan government on the issue and is looking to present its stance.
“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,” said a source.
The BCCI has requested the ICC to conduct the Indian team matches on a hybrid model.
