The cricketing world is abuzz with speculation regarding the participation of the Indian cricket team in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, scheduled for February-March in Pakistan. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has expressed reservations about sending its team to Pakistan, primarily citing security concerns. In response, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi is hopeful of Team India travelling across the border.
PCB Chairman’s stance on India’s participation in the 2025 Champions Trophy
Despite the uncertainty, Naqvi remains optimistic, directing preparations for the tournament under the assumption that India will indeed participate. The PCB has already submitted a draft schedule and security plans to the ICC, emphasizing their readiness to host the event.
In a recent statement, Naqvi expressed confidence that India would ultimately decide to send its team. Speaking to the press, Naqvi said, “Indian team mujhe puri umeed hai… Abhi tak koi aisi cheej nahi hai jiski wajah se wo postpone karey ya cancel karey. Toh sari teams aayengi [I am fully confident about the Indian team… So far, there is nothing that would cause them to postpone or cancel. So, all the teams will come].”
Chairman @TheRealPCB @MohsinnaqviC42 on @BCCI India team for Champion 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 evaluate these preparations.
The role of Jay Shah as ICC Chairman
The appointment of Jay Shah as the new ICC Chairman has added another layer of complexity to this situation. With Shah’s influence in Indian cricket governance, there are concerns within the PCB regarding potential relocations of matches to neutral venues if India opts out of traveling to Pakistan. However, Naqvi has publicly stated that there are no objections from the PCB regarding Shah’s new role and emphasized ongoing communication between the two boards.
As preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy continue, all eyes will be on the BCCI’s final decision. The PCB is keenly aware of the stakes involved and is working diligently behind the scenes to ensure a successful tournament. With Mohsin Naqvi at the helm, the PCB is adopting a measured approach while hoping for a positive outcome in terms of India’s participation.
