Champions Trophy 2025 Stays In Pakistan! PCB Chief Rejects India's Hybrid Model Plan
Mohsin Naqvi addresses the media outside Gaddafi Stadium (Source:@therealPCB/X.com)
From Pakistan urging India to travel to their country to India proposing a hybrid model in United Arab Emirates; the upcoming ICC's Champions Trophy 2025 has been a contentious topic. The last few months have witnessed numerous shots being fired and the latest development comes from Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB),
In a new statement, PCB's chairman, Mohsin Naqvi has rejected the proposal to host the mega-tournament in a hybrid model. Moreover, he firmly conveyed that should India have any issues pertaining to it, they must speak to them personally. Previously, BCCI had cited 'security concerns' as a reason for not sending the Indian players to the neighbouring soil.
"Pakistan's pride and respect is our priority. Champions Trophy will take place in our country only, we will not accept Hybrid Model. If India has any issues, they can come to us and we will sort them out", Naqvi said while addressing the media outside Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
Mohsin Naqvi Talks About PCB's Decision To Reject Hybrid Model- Watch
Both India and Pakistan have historically had a broken relationship for years now. However, holding his ground firmly Naqvi further stated PCB's decision to not budge and that they await for the International Cricket Council (ICC) to announce the schedule.
"We stand firm on our stance that we will not go for a hybrid model. We're waiting for the ICC to announce the schedule as soon as possible. The ICC needs to consider its credibility as it represents all cricket bodies globally. The schedule has been rescheduled, but we haven't received any cancellation notice," he said.
Naqvi Asks Not To Mix Sports And Politics
Lastly, Naqvi also highlighted that he believes that sports and politics should be kept separate, emphasizing that the two should not influence or interfere with each other while taking such decisions.
"I still believe that sports and politics should not interfere with each other, and I maintain a positive outlook," he said.
Earlier, there were also reports suggesting that if the tournament is not held in a hybrid model, there are strong chances that the Champions Trophy 2025 would be moved to South Africa. While there is no official confirmation about this development, fans await clarity over the faith of Champions Trophy 2025.