The excitement around next year's Champions Trophy has intensified tensions for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Speculations surround India's participation due to potential security concerns, with the Indian government yet to give the green light for its team to visit Pakistan. Reports from PTI hinted at a 'hybrid model' solution, possibly setting the stage in Dubai or Sharjah if India's travel plans don't materialize.
'BCCI Must Provide Written Notice…'
Additional reports suggested Pakistan's openness to this 'hybrid model', allowing India to play all matches in the UAE. However, the ICC has not issued any official confirmations. Now, PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi has voiced his position. He insisted that if the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reservations, these must be communicated in writing before any 'hybrid model' discussions proceed.
At a press conference in Lahore, Naqvi clarified, 'Our stance is that BCCI must write to us if there are concerns. To date, no hybrid model discussions have taken place on our part, though we are open to it. If Indian media reports are to be believed, ICC or BCCI should have issued some correspondence, yet none has reached me or the PCB.'
Naqvi emphasized his desire for cricket to remain apolitical, 'Such politics should not mar any sport globally. Preparations for the Champions Trophy will move forward, evident in what you're witnessing. Should India opt out, we will consult with our government and respond accordingly, as our past interactions with BCCI have often been cordial.'
Source: aajtak
When Will the Tournament Schedule be Announced?
The Pakistan Cricket Board has already crafted the Champions Trophy schedule, sending it to ICC and member countries. According to Pakistani media outlet The Express Tribune, an ICC delegation is set to visit Lahore from November 10-12 to assess all preparations. It is anticipated that the official Champions Trophy schedule will be unveiled on November 11.
Speculated reports suggest a thrilling kickoff on February 19 in Karachi, with the final slated for March 9 in Lahore. The curtain-raiser pits Pakistan against New Zealand, while India and Pakistan are grouped together for an electrifying encounter. Group A features India, Pakistan, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, whereas Group B includes England, South Africa, Australia, and Afghanistan.
India and Pakistan's head-to-head is anticipated on March 1 in Lahore. All of India's matches are arranged in Lahore, although there has been no official comment from the BCCI regarding India's travel. India last ventured to Pakistan in 2008, participating in the Asia Cup under MS Dhoni's captaincy and reaching the finals, though falling short of victory against Sri Lanka by 100 runs.
