The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has yet to receive an official response from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding reports that India’s cricket team might refuse to participate in next year’s Champions Trophy in Pakistan. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi addressed the issue on Friday, stating, “We have a clear position that if there are any concerns, the Indian cricket board must provide them in writing.”
Naqvi emphasized that the PCB has not yet discussed any alternative arrangements, such as a hybrid model, but is open to dialogue if necessary.
This statement follows Indian media reports suggesting that the Indian team will not travel to Pakistan for the tournament, instead seeking to play their matches at a neutral venue. The 2024 Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9. Pakistan, the reigning Champions Trophy winners from 2017, is preparing to host the event.
India has not visited Pakistan since 2008 due to ongoing political tensions, and the two nations only compete in multi-team tournaments. In 2023, India opted to play the Asia Cup in Sri Lanka, citing the lack of government clearance for travel to Pakistan, despite being the champions.
Naqvi reiterated the PCB’s stance, stating that any official communication from the BCCI would need to be submitted in writing. He added that media reports alone are not sufficient, and the PCB has yet to receive any formal correspondence from either the ICC or the BCCI on the matter.
The PCB chairman also expressed his belief that cricket should remain unaffected by political issues and reiterated his board’s commitment to organizing a successful Champions Trophy. He noted that, should a hybrid model be considered, it would require consultation with the government, and any decision would be based on that consultation.
Naqvi remained hopeful that the ICC would announce the tournament schedule soon, and mentioned that he is in regular contact with other cricket boards, most of which have expressed interest in participating in the tournament. He urged patience and optimism, hoping that all teams would ultimately play the tournament as planned.
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