Photo Credit: Instagram Photo of @imshoaibakhtar
The uncertainty surrounding the host venue for the 2025 Champions Trophy continues to dominate cricket discussions. Key questions remain: Will the tournament be held in Pakistan, follow a hybrid hosting model, or be shifted entirely to another location?
The controversy began when the BCCI informed the ICC that India would not send its team to Pakistan, the designated host. In response, the PCB rejected the proposed hybrid model, taking a firm stance on hosting the entire tournament in Pakistan.
Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar recently shared his thoughts on the matter in an interview. “It’s really up to the governments. It’s nothing to do with the BCCI. It is up to the BJP government. They will decide,” Akhtar said.
He emphasized the potential for diplomatic efforts, stating “There will be back channel talks. Even in days of war, there are back channel talks. We should not lose hope. We have to look forward to a solution. We know a fact that 95-98 per cent of sponsorship for ICC comes from India.”
Akhtar also outlined the financial and symbolic implications for Pakistan, adding “If Pakistan fails to convince India to come to Pakistan, then two things will happen: Pakistan will lose about 100 million dollars of the sponsorship that will go to ICC and the host country will earn. Second, 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.”
He noted the excitement surrounding the prospect of Indian star Virat Kohli playing in Pakistan.
“Entire Pakistan wants to see Virat play in Pakistan. Imagine him scoring a century in Pakistan. It will be good; he doesn’t score a century here and gets out early. It will be a full circle for him.”
Akhtar concluded by highlighting the broader significance of hosting the Champions Trophy in Pakistan. “Pakistan has got a tag that it cannot host big tournaments like the World Cup or Champions Trophy. If this happens, it will be a stepping stone for bigger events. I don’t think this will happen. Keeping the fingers crossed. Wait till the last moment. I think currently, as of now, India is coming to Pakistan,” Akhtar concluded.
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
