The cricketing world is abuzz with speculations regarding the Indian cricket team’s participation in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy scheduled to be held in Pakistan in February-March. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has expressed caution about sending its team to Pakistan, primarily citing security concerns. In response, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi hopes that Team India will cross the border.
PCB Chairman’s stance on India’s participation in the 2025 Champions Trophy
Despite the uncertainty, Naqvi remains optimistic and is guiding preparations for the tournament with the prospect that India will indeed participate. The PCB is already there presented the draft calendar security plans to the ICC, highlighting their readiness to host the event.
In a recent statement, Naqvi expressed confidence that India would eventually decide to send its team. Speaking to the press, Naqvi said: “Indian team is full of hope for me… So far there is no such thing that they will postpone or cancel their face. All teams will come (I’m pretty sure about the Indian team… There’s nothing to delay or cancel them yet. So all the teams will come).”
Chairman @TheRealPCB @MohsinnaqviC42 about @BCCI Team India for the Champions Trophy 🏆 #India pic.twitter.com/iAAKOViDhP
— Sohail Imran (@sohailimrangeo) October 6, 2024
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An ICC inspection team is expected to visit Pakistan soon to assess these preparations.
Jay Shah’s role as ICC chairman
Determination of Jay Shah as the new ICC Chairman added another layer of complexity to this situation. With Shah’s influence in Indian cricket management, there are concerns within the PCB about a potential move of matches to neutral venues if India refuses to travel to Pakistan. Naqvi, however, clarified that there was no objection from the PCB regarding Shah’s new role and emphasized the continued relationship between the two boards.
As preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy continue, all eyes will be on BCCI’s final decision. The PCB is well aware of the stakes involved and is working hard behind the scenes to ensure a successful tournament. Along with Mohsin Naqvi, the PCB is taking a measured approach while hoping for a positive outcome in terms of India’s participation.
