Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi has again taken to X to voice his displeasure on India’s decision to not to travel to Pakistan. The marquee event is expected to be played from February 19 to March 9, but the schedule hasn’t been out yet, as India wants the tournament to be played in hybrid mode.
However, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has strongly resisted opting for a hybrid mode for the Indian team. They feel it’s an injustice to them, as they agreed to a hybrid mode for Asia Cup 2023 and also traveled to India to play the 2023 World Cup. Moreover, PCB has spent billions to improve the sports infrastructure of their stadiums for the Champions Trophy.
The ICC is caught in a fix on the final decision of the matter, and have scheduled a board meeting on Friday, November 29. The board might take a final decision on the matter, which could be detrimental or favorable for Pakistan.
Amid such controversy, Afridi has jumped again to lambast India for mixing politics with sports. He pointed out that Pakistan has toured India five times since the 26/11 incident. He hoped that the ICC board of directors will take a decision in favor of PCB.
“By intertwining politics with sports, the BCCI has placed international cricket in a precarious position. Fully support the PCB’s stance against the hybrid model – especially since Pakistan (despite security concerns) has toured India five times, including a bilateral white-ball series, post-26/11. It’s time for the ICC and its Board of Directors to uphold fairness and assert their authority.”
Pakistan could host Champions Trophy at a new venue
As per reports, there are three possible scenarios for the Champions Trophy to take place during the aforementioned dates. One is the hybrid option, with India’s matches taking place in UAE, and the second one being the marquee event taking place entirely outside of Pakistan. The final scenario could be leaving out India and playing the event in Pakistan. 
The last scenario could be ruled out due to the lack of financial incentive and sponsors, however, the first two scenarios are possible. Pakistan would be vary of losing out on the money receivables for the hosts by ICC, and could agree on organizing the tournament entirely in UAE/South Africa.
Moreover, PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi has signaled that even if Pakistan agrees on the hybrid model, Pakistan won’t be traveling to India to take part in the Asia Cup in 2025, Men’s T20 World Cup in 2026 and a Champions Trophy in 2029. Here’s what he told in a press conference on Thursday:
“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.”
It will be interesting to see what comes out of the board meeting on Friday, and whether Pakistan would continue to host the Champions Trophy.
FAQs
Who won the last edition of Champions Trophy?
Pakistan lifted the 2017 Champions Trophy by beating India.
Who holds the record for winning Champions Trophy most times?
India and Australia have won two titles each.
