NEW DELHI: Circuit board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi On Friday, he addressed media reports about India's refusal to play Pakistan for the ICC 2025 Champions trophy.
Reacting to the news, the Pakistan cricket Board chief expressed his disappointment and stressed the importance of the tournament to Pakistan's cricket landscape and its potential to boost cricket relations in the region.
Naqvi was addressing media representatives after inspecting next year's upgrade of the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore ICC Tournament.
When asked about the reports in the Indian media, Naqvi said, “It has been two months since it was reported in the Indian media that the Indian team is not coming to Pakistan. We have a clear stance that if there is such a thing, then we will do it. Accept it only if India tells us in writing if it has any issues in this regard.”
“Secondly, we have not yet had a discussion about the 'hybrid model' and are not ready for such a dialogue. We continue to want cricket to be kept away from politics and no sport to take place anywhere in the world.” “We will continue to prepare for the Champions Trophy as we have done so far and I am sure it will be a great success will,” he continued.
When asked what would happen if the PCB received a formal letter of non-participation from BCCINaqvi clearly stated that he would then consult with the government. “Whatever decision they take, I have to abide by it,” he added, emphasizing the government’s role in the matter.
Media address by PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi at Gaddafi Stadium as he inspected the venue's upgrade
Earlier in the day, TimesofIndia.com reported that the Indian cricket team will not travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy and would like to play its matches at a neutral venue. It is reliably learned that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has communicated its decision to the Pakistan Cricket Board and other stakeholders and there is a strong possibility that some matches will be played in Dubai.
“Yes, the BCCI has expressed its concerns regarding the Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan. They want to host the matches at a neutral venue and Dubai is the strong candidate to host the Men in Blue matches,” a source tracking developments told TimesofIndia. com.
