Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi has once again shared his stance on the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025 standoff after BCCI refused to send the Indian team to Pakistan citing the Indian government not permitting them.
Pakistan will host the 8-nation Champions Trophy from February 19 to March 9, 2025. This is the first big ICC tournament given to Pakistan since it jointly hosted the Wills World Cup in 1996 with India and Sri Lanka.
While speaking in a press conference in Lahore, Naqvi insisted on fair treatment compared to India. He stated that it is not fair that the Pakistan team went to India to play but is not willing to come to Pakistan.
"Our stance is unequivocal. I promise we'll do what is best for Pakistan cricket. I'm constantly in touch with the ICC chairman, and my team is talking to them constantly. We're still clear in our stance that it's not acceptable that we play cricket in India, and they don't play cricket here. Whatever will happen, will happen based on equality. We've told the ICC very clearly, and what happens next we'll let you know,” Naqvi stated.
Naqvi reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to achieving the best possible result. He emphasized the need for reciprocity in cricketing relations with India.
"Whatever we do, we will make sure the best outcome for Pakistan is achieved. But I repeat, and I am sure you know what I mean, it's not possible that Pakistan play in India, and they don't come here," Naqvi said.
Naqvi also mentioned the upcoming transition in ICC leadership. Jay Shah, BCCI secretary, is set to become ICC chairman in December. Naqvi advised Shah to prioritize the ICC's interests in his new position.
He emphasized the significance of putting the organization's welfare ahead of all else.
"(Jay Shah) takes charge in December, and I'm sure once he moves from the BCCI to the ICC, he will think about the ICC's benefit, and that's what he should do. Whenever anyone assumes such a role, he should only consider the interests of that organization," Naqvi said.
Naqvi indicated that any ICC decisions will require clearance from the Pakistani government. The PCB continues to demand equal and reciprocal treatment in international cricket.
(PTI inputs)
