Lahore, November 28, 2024 – The International Cricket Council (ICC) is set to discuss the Champions Trophy’s hosting tomorrow. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi is strong on Pakistan’s stance about fair hosting. He expressed this at a Gaddafi Stadium press conference today. Naqvi’s message was loud and clear – the PCB stays committed to equal treatment.
In Naqvi’s words: “We stand for Pakistan cricket’s well-being. I am in constant touch with ICC Chairman Greg Barclay alongside my team. We’ve made it crystal clear– there will be no play in India until they agree to host us. The Champions Trophy decision has to be about fairness.”
The Champions Trophy, planned for February-March 2025, is set to occur at three Pakistani venues. But there’s still a question mark. The Indian government hasn’t given the green light to their team’s Pakistan travel due to security concerns. They have not visited Pakistan since 2008, which thickens the plot.
Regarding the possibility of a hybrid model – for some games in Pakistan and India’s matches at a neutral place – the PCB gives a firm ‘no.’ Naqvi stressed: “We need written objections. No other solution is acceptable – not now, not ever. And, to date, there hasn’t been any conversation about a hybrid model.”
Naqvi insisted any ICC decisions would go to the Pakistani government for nod of approval. He also touched upon Pakistan’s potential no-show at future India-hosted ICC events, like the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup and the 2026 T20 World Cup. Playing in India while they won’t come to our turf is bothersome, Naqvi stated unequivocally. It may force our hand to reconsider Pakistan’s role in forthcoming ICC events. Financial gains won’t sway us, Naqvi assured. He declared that the focus was only on Pakistan’s benefits, not making money.
Incoming ICC Chair, Jay Shah, was urged by Naqvi to keep global cricket governance in focus. Naqvi added that anyone in such a position should work for ICC’s best interests. The PCB’s unflinching stance casts a spotlight on the Champions Trophy. It also brings regional factors at play in international cricket to surface. Tomorrow, the ICC gathers, and all eyes will be on the hunt for a fair solution. It should allow a smooth contest while standing up for justice and equality.
