NEW DELHI: It will Champions trophy take place in Pakistan? Will it be played under a hybrid model? Or will the tournament be moved entirely from Pakistan? The uncertainty about the venue Champions Trophy 2025 continues to dominate discussions in world cricket.
The controversy began when the BCCI informed the International cricket Council (ICC) that the Indian cricket team would not travel to Pakistan, the designated hosts of the tournament.
In response, the Pakistan cricket Board (PCB) took a strong stand and rejected the idea of a hybrid model.
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Now former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has spoken out on this topic and recently presented his perspective in an interview.
“It’s really up to governments. It has nothing to do with the BCCI. It's up to the BJP government. They will decide,” Shoaib Akhtar said.
“There will be back-channel discussions. Even in war days, there are back-channel conversations. We shouldn't lose hope. We have to look forward to a solution. We know that 95 to 98 percent of sponsorship for the ICC comes from India.
“If Pakistan fails to convince India to come to Pakistan, two things will happen: Pakistan will lose about $100 million of the sponsorship that goes to the ICC and the host country will earn. Secondly, it would be better if India comes and plays in Pakistan. But it's really, really up to the government. It has nothing to do with BCCI.
“Virat Kohli tries to play in Pakistan for the first time. The whole of Pakistan wants to see Virat play in Pakistan. Imagine if he celebrated a century in Pakistan. It will be good; He doesn't score a century here and gets out early. The circle has come full circle for him.
REGARD:
“Pakistan has a tag of not being able to host major tournaments like the World Cup or the Champions Trophy. If this (Champions Trophy) happens, it will be a stepping stone to bigger events. I don't think that will happen. Keep your hands off.” “I think India is coming to Pakistan now until the last moment,” Akhtar said.