The dispute between the BCCI and PCB over the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 continues. Team India has refused to travel to Pakistan for the mega event, while Pakistan remains firm on hosting the tournament on their home soil. The PCB is not in favor of holding the Champions Trophy under a hybrid model. On Sunday, the Pakistan Cricket Board confirmed that the BCCI has declined to send the Indian team to Pakistan for the event. Following this, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has started discussions with senior government officials on Sunday to decide on future actions.
A PCB official stated, “Mohsin Naqvi, who is also the Federal Interior Minister, is in contact with government officials, and now we are waiting for the directives from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.”
The official expressed disappointment over India’s stance despite Pakistan’s assurance of full-scale security for all visiting teams during the ICC event.
He added, “It is unacceptable as there is no logical reason for India to refuse to send their team to Pakistan again.”
The official further mentioned, “Preparations for the event are proceeding as scheduled, and we have already assured the ICC of the best security arrangements for all teams, including India.”
The official acknowledged that taking a hard stance, such as boycotting all matches against India, could lead to financial losses for Pakistan, but he emphasized that they are prepared for such a situation.
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Meanwhile, there are speculations in Pakistan that the government might direct the PCB to stop participating in any ICC or multi-team events involving India, starting with the Champions Trophy, until the Indian government changes its policy.
The cricket community in Pakistan has criticized India’s stance. Former Test captains Rashid Latif, Javed Miandad, and Inzamam-ul-Haq have expressed disappointment over India’s decision.