Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has stepped into the ongoing dispute Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Regarding hosting the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
In a recent meeting with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, Sharif expressed his support for PCB’s position and stressed the importance of protecting Pakistan’s self-respect in the talks.
PCB position support
Sharif’s comments come at a time when India have refused to play them Champions Cup matches In Pakistan, instead, it proposed a hybrid model that allowed it to play in a neutral venue like Dubai. The proposal sparked considerable controversy, with the PCB advocating for a fairer arrangement that reflected the sentiments of Pakistani cricket fans.
According to Geo TV, Sharif told Naqvi that the issue is not only about financial considerations, but also about national pride and public sentiment.“The stand taken by the PCB reflects the sentiments of all Pakistanis when it comes to the Champions Trophy after India refused to play in Pakistan.” Sharif said. He encouraged Naqvi to approach the situation with dignity and pride, asserting that Pakistan should not compromise its self-respect in these discussions.
Also READ: Champions Trophy 2025 – Understanding the hybrid model and its implications for the India-Pakistan rivalry
Ongoing negotiations
The meeting between Sharif and Naqvi was reportedly called at short notice to discuss Pakistan’s next steps for the tournament. The PCB is exploring various options, including a proposed “fusion formula” that would see Pakistan also refrain from playing in India if India does not participate in events held in Pakistan.
“Basically, Naqvi wanted to inform the Prime Minister and get his approval if the PCB decides to break the impasse with any tough decision regarding the tournament.” This was reported by a source close to Geo TV.
As discussions continue at the ICC headquarters in Dubai, there is a growing consensus among cricket authorities on a hybrid model. However, this arrangement has not yet been finalized and further negotiations are expected.
