PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has stressed Pakistan’s firm position on hosting the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. He insisted that Pakistan should be treated fairly, just like India. Speaking at a press conference at Gaddafi Stadium, Naqvi said it is unacceptable that Pakistan will play in India, but India refuses to play in Pakistan.
“Our position is very clear,” Naqvi said. “I promise we’ll do what’s best for Pakistan cricket. I am in constant touch with the ICC chairman, and my team is always talking to them. We are still firm on our stance that it’s not acceptable that we play cricket in India, and they don’t play here. Whatever happens, it will be based on equality. We’ve clearly told the ICC, and we’ll let you know what happens next.”
The Champions Trophy is scheduled for February and March next year, with three Pakistani cities hosting the matches. India recently told the ICC that it couldn’t travel to Pakistan due to lack of government approval.
Naqvi reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to getting the best possible outcome and emphasized the need for fairness in cricket relations with India. “Whatever we do, we will ensure the best outcome for Pakistan. But I repeat, it’s not acceptable for Pakistan to play in India while they refuse to come here,” Naqvi added.
Naqvi also spoke about the upcoming change in ICC leadership. BCCI secretary Jay Shah is set to become ICC chairman in December. Naqvi urged Shah to focus on the ICC’s interests in his new role. He stressed that anyone in such a position should put the organization’s benefit first.
“(Jay Shah) will take charge in December, and once he moves from BCCI to ICC, I’m sure he will think about the ICC’s benefit. That’s what he should do. When anyone takes such a role, they should only focus on the organization’s interests,” Naqvi said.
Naqvi confirmed that any ICC decisions will need approval from the Pakistan government. The PCB remains firm on its demand for equal and fair treatment in international cricket.
The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy now faces uncertainty, as India’s refusal to approve travel to Pakistan poses a major challenge. The ICC will have to handle these political issues carefully to ensure the tournament goes ahead smoothly.
