Mohsin Naqvi Statement on Champions Trophy 2025: There is confusion about the Indian team not going to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, as well as the ongoing political violence in Pakistan. The ICC is set to hold a virtual meeting on the Champions Trophy this Thursday. Ahead of this meeting, a report has suggested that due to anti-government protests in several countries, the boards of many nations have raised security concerns. As a result, Pakistan may lose the right to host the Champions Trophy.
Before the ICC meeting, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi emphasized that the board is “clear” about its stance on hosting the Champions Trophy. He stated, “It is not possible for Pakistan to play in India and for them not to come here.”
During a press conference held at the Gaddafi Stadium, Naqvi said, “Our stand is very clear. I promise that we will do what is best for Pakistan cricket. I am constantly in touch with the ICC chairman and my team is constantly talking to him. We are still clear in our stand that it is not acceptable that we play cricket in India and they do not play cricket here. Whatever happens, it will be based on equality. We have told the ICC very clearly, and whatever happens next, we will tell you.”
Champions Trophy Scheduled for February-March 2025 in Pakistan
The Champions Trophy is set to take place in three venues in Pakistan in February and March next year. However, India, who has not toured Pakistan since 2008, informed the ICC earlier this month that their government had not granted permission for the Indian team to travel to Pakistan for the event.
It’s not possible for #Pakistan to play in #India, as they’re not sending team here: PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi#ChampionsTrophy https://t.co/vI4GzFZo6e
— The Telegraph (@ttindia) November 28, 2024
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PCB Chairman’s Statement on Hosting Rights
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi reiterated several times, “Whatever we do, we will ensure the best result for Pakistan. But I repeat, and I am sure you know what I mean, it is not possible that Pakistan plays in India, and they do not come here.”
Naqvi’s Stance on the ICC Decision and Role of Jay Shah
Naqvi further mentioned that any decision made during the ICC meeting would be taken to the Pakistan government by the PCB for final approval. He also urged Jay Shah, who is set to leave his position as BCCI Secretary and assume the role of ICC Chairman in December, to prioritize the benefit of the ICC in his new role.
Naqvi said, “Jai (Jay Shah) will take charge in December, and I am sure that when he moves from BCCI to ICC, he will think about the benefit of ICC, and that is what he should do. Whenever someone takes up such a role, he should only think about the interests of that organization.”