The deadlock over ICC Champions Trophy 2025 between India and Pakistan has stretched well over a month now. The 90-day deadline to announce the Champions Trophy 2025 schedule has come and gone with International Cricket Council (ICC) trying to play the mediator.
Over the weekend, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have reportedly agreed to the ‘hybrid’ model for the tournament proposed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) but have demanded that all the ICC tournament organized in India should have a similar model as well.
Former Pakistan Shoaib Akhtar, speaking to a Pakistani TV channel, agreed with the PCB’s demand for a higher share of revenues since the tournament will now be held in a ‘hybrid’ model. But Akhtar doesn’t agree with the board about not traveling to India for future ICC events.
“You are getting paid for hosting rights and revenue, and that’s fine-we all understand it. Pakistan’s stance is also reasonable. They should have maintained a strong position, why not? Once we are able to host the Champions Trophy in our country and they are unwilling to come, they should share the revenue with us at a higher rate. That’s a good call,” Akhtar said.
Akhtar feels the PCB should send the Pakistan team to India for future ICC events. They should also build their team in a way that Pakistan should be able to beat India in their own backyard.
“In terms of playing in India in the future, we should extend a hand of friendship and go there. My belief has always been, go to India and defeat them there. India mein khelo aur wahi unhe maarke aao (play in India and beat them on their home ground). I understand that the hybrid model had already been signed earlier,” he added.
Hybrid Model pehle decide ho gaya tha. Shoaib Akhtar
VC PTV sports official pic.twitter.com/6nZEthwHH3— iffi Raza (@Rizzvi73) December 1, 2024
Meanwhile, speaking to a couple of Pakistan media outlets after an Under-19 game between India and Pakistan at Dubai International Stadium on Saturday, the PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi revealed that a ‘middle-ground’ is being sought.
“A lot is happening at the moment, and I want to ensure that nothing I say jeopardizes the ongoing process. We’ve presented our perspective, and India has shared theirs. Everyone involved is working hard to find a win-win solution, and above all, to ensure that cricket emerges as the true winner. The most important aspect is to resolve matters in a way that allows everyone to move forward with their pride intact,” Naqvi said.
Asked specifically if the PCB has accepted the ‘hybrid’ model, he denied the reports but his reply was open to interpretation. “We will take the steps that are best for the game of cricket. Whatever formula we decide on – not the hybrid one – it will ensure equal footing for every party involved.
“There are many considerations at play, but at the end of the day, our focus remains on ensuring that cricket emerges as the true winner. What is paramount here is Pakistan’s pride. Inshaallah, we are committed to protecting Pakistan’s prestige while ensuring the game thrives,” he added.
