Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi shared a significant update regarding the venue and schedule of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Naqvi emphasized his commitment to prioritizing Pakistan cricket’s best interests and disclosed that he remains in regular communication with the ICC chairman.
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has been a focal point of controversy, with tensions escalating between the BCCI and PCB. The dispute stems from India’s refusal to play in Pakistan, while the hosts have firmly asserted their intent to hold the entire tournament on home soil.
The ICC is set to convene a crucial virtual meeting on November 29 (Friday) to finalize the venue and format for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. According to recent reports, there is a strong possibility that the tournament will follow a hybrid model, a strategy the ICC appears inclined to adopt. However, PCB stands firm on its decision not to consider a hybrid model for the tournament. Pakistan is set to host the first ICC tournament since the 1996 ODI World Cup.
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi made a bold statement yet again when he was assessing Gaddafi Stadium’s upgrade.”Our stance is very clear. I promise we’ll do what is best for Pakistan cricket. I’m constantly in touch with the ICC chairman and my team is talking to them constantly. “We’re still clear in our stance that it’s not acceptable that we play cricket in India, and they don’t play cricket here. Whatever will happen, will happen based on equality. We’ve told the ICC very clearly, and what happens next we’ll let you know.” he said while addressing to media at Gaddafi Stadium.
“Whatever we do, we will make sure the best outcome for Pakistan is achieved,” Naqvi said multiple times. “But I repeat, and I am sure you know what I mean, it’s not possible that Pakistan play in India, and they don’t come here,” he added.
We’ll not just sell our rights
When a reporter inquired whether the PCB chairman would reconsider the hybrid model if the ICC offered additional funding, he responded by assuring that they would not compromise their rights. “I promise you that we’ll not just sell our rights out just for more money. This will never happen. But we’ll do whatever is best for Pakistan.”
Jasir Basharat is a cricket enthusiast capturing the heart of the game through insightful analysis and storytelling sharing his passion for the sport through engaging narratives. He is a business graduate from University of Kashmir.
