PCB Asserts Equality Principle Before Key ICC Meeting On Champions Trophy Hosting With India

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has underscored its commitment to "equality" before the ICC's crucial meeting on November 29. This meeting will decide the fate of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi clarified the board's position during a late-night press conference at Gaddafi Stadium.

Naqvi stressed that Pakistan will not agree to unequal hosting terms for the tournament. He stated, "Our stance is very clear. It's not acceptable that we play cricket in India, and they don't play cricket here. Whatever happens will be on the basis of equality. We've communicated this clearly to the ICC."

The Champions Trophy is planned for February and March 2025 in Pakistan. However, India's refusal to travel due to government restrictions threatens the event. Reports suggest a hybrid model where India's matches might occur at neutral venues.

Despite these suggestions, Naqvi firmly opposed such solutions. "It is just not possible for Pakistan to continue traveling to India for tournaments while they refuse to reciprocate," he remarked. "This unequal situation cannot persist."

Naqvi mentioned his ongoing talks with ICC Chairman Greg Barclay and noted that no formal objections had been received from India by the PCB. The ICC meeting will decide the tournament's future, with Pakistan aiming for a favourable outcome.

"All decisions taken by the ICC will be forwarded to the Pakistan government for final approval," Naqvi said, adding, "We will not sell our hosting rights for financial incentives."

Future of Cricket Relations

Naqvi expressed hope that Jay Shah, who will become ICC chairman on December 5, would prioritize international cricket interests over national biases. "Jay Shah must make decisions for the ICC's benefit," Naqvi emphasized.

The deadlock has raised concerns about Pakistan's participation in future Indian-hosted tournaments like the 2025 Women's ODI World Cup and 2026 T20 World Cup. With tensions escalating, Friday's ICC decision could significantly impact cricket relations between these nations.