With the uncertainty surrounding the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has expressed hope for a “long-term” solution that would benefit both Pakistan and international cricket, applying to all future ICC events.
Speaking to the media in Dubai on Saturday, Naqvi stressed that decisions regarding ICC events should be based on equality and fairness. “We will not accept one-sided decisions. All decisions should be made on an equal basis,” said Naqvi, who also serves as Pakistan’s interior minister.
The Champions Trophy, scheduled to be hosted in Pakistan, has become a contentious issue between Pakistan and India, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) refusing to send its team due to security concerns, despite reassurances from Pakistan. An online meeting held by the ICC on Friday lasted only 15 minutes and yielded no substantial resolution.
The PCB rejected the hybrid model proposed during the meeting, which suggested that India’s matches be held outside Pakistan. Sources indicate that the BCCI has asked for more time to consider Pakistan’s firm position.
Naqvi emphasized the need for long-term talks and fair treatment, pointing out that it is unfair for Pakistan to travel to India for ICC events while India avoids playing in Pakistan. “Decisions cannot be limited to just the Champions Trophy. We need a long-term solution for future tournaments,” he added.
In a separate development, Naqvi met with Mubashir Usmani, Chairman of the ICC Associate Member Committee, and former Secretary of the Emirates Cricket Board, to discuss the Champions Trophy. The PCB Chairman reaffirmed Pakistan’s readiness to host the event, highlighting that Pakistan is a peaceful country with a deep passion for cricket.
Naqvi assured that presidential-level security would be provided to all visiting teams, further emphasizing that Pakistanis are eagerly awaiting the tournament. “Every team will be treated with state-guest-level security and protocol,” he said.
The PCB Chairman also stressed the importance of keeping politics separate from cricket. “This tournament is an honor for our country. We warmly welcome every team and will ensure they have a world-class experience,” he stated.
In discussions with ICC Chief Executive Geoff Allardice, Naqvi reiterated Pakistan’s firm position against the hybrid model, insisting on equality in the treatment of both nations. “It is not acceptable. We comply whenever Pakistan is required to play in India, but when it is India’s turn to visit Pakistan, excuses are made. Both nations should be treated equally under the same rules.”
The ICC Board has deferred the issue, leaving it to the PCB, ICC, and the BCCI to find a resolution. However, sources suggest that Pakistan’s unwavering stance has put the ICC in a difficult situation, with options such as postponing the tournament, rescheduling, or finding an alternative host like Sri Lanka.
Adding to the complexity, India’s Ministry of External Affairs has expressed that it is “unlikely” the Indian team will travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy due to security concerns, with the BCCI expected to follow the government’s directives. Mohsin Naqvi dismissed these concerns, highlighting Pakistan’s successful track record in hosting international teams in recent years.
