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Following India’s official refusal to play the Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan, several notable figures in the host nation have voiced their reactions. Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez is among those criticizing the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Hafeez called it a dream to see India play in Pakistan, expressing frustration over what he sees as an unfounded decision, given that other countries have successfully toured Pakistan recently.
BCCI cites security concerns, PCB seeks government advice
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) recently received an email from the International Cricket Council (ICC), confirming that BCCI would not send the Indian team to Pakistan, citing security concerns. PCB, in response, has forwarded the issue to Pakistan’s government, seeking guidance on how to proceed. Hafeez, meanwhile, strongly asserted that Pakistan is “safe and ready” to host the tournament and called for a firm response from both PCB and the government.
Mohammad Hafeez takes a dig at BCCI over India’s denial to travel to Pakistan
Hafeez did not hold back in his criticism of the BCCI’s decision, stating that while it was always a daydream to think India would play in Pakistan, the reasoning behind their refusal lacks logic. Hafeez pointed out that multiple international teams, including Australia, England, and West Indies, have played in Pakistan recently, yet India continues to raise security concerns.
According to Hafeez, this selective stance from India is difficult to justify, as Pakistan has proven their capability to host top-tier international events without incident. Hafeez’s comments reflect a growing sentiment in Pakistan cricket circles, calling for a strong stance from the PCB and government in response to India’s refusal.
“It was a day dream that India will come to Pakistan to play #ChampionsTrophy2025. Pakistan is safe & ready to host the event. Pakistan hosting all cricket nations at home but somehow not *secure* for India. Waiting for strong & surprised response from government & PCB,” Hafeez wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
It was a day dream that India wil come to Pakistan to play #ChampionsTrophy2025. Pakistan is safe & ready to host the event. Pakistan hosting all cricket nations at home but somehow not *secure* for India 😇😇😇. Waiting for strong & surprised response from government & PCB.
— Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) November 11, 2024
Also READ: Team India not to travel Pakistan for Champions Trophy 2025, will play matches at a neutral venue
Potential hybrid model and tournament uncertainty
The ICC had planned to announce the Champions Trophy schedule on November 11, but the unresolved dispute between PCB and BCCI has cast uncertainty over the tournament’s future. While Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi were initially chosen as venues, the ICC may now consider a hybrid model, with UAE as a potential alternative host for matches involving India.
Asia Cup 2023: A similar scenario
This situation mirrors last year’s Asia Cup, where BCCI refused to send India to Pakistan, resulting in a hybrid model. Pakistan hosted some games, but India’s matches were held in Sri Lanka. If the Champions Trophy adopts a similar format, matches featuring India could be played in the UAE.
