Karachi, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has reiterated his disappointment over India’s determination to play their Champions Trophy at a impartial venue however stays assured that the Pakistan’s first ICC occasion in 29 years will go away a long-lasting legacy for the game within the nation.
HT Picture
Whereas PCB has the internet hosting rights of the occasion, India are enjoying all their video games in Dubai because of safety considerations in Pakistan.
“We are focussed on delivering a world class event but it is undoubtedly disappointing that India is not playing in Pakistan,” Naqvi advised PTI earlier than leaving for Dubai to look at the Pakistan and India match on Sunday.
“It is disappointing- not just for the PCB, but also for cricket fans worldwide, the ICC, its commercial partners and the other participating countries that India is not playing in. Pakistan,” he mentioned.
Naqvi reminded that Pakistan has persistently upheld the precept of holding sports activities and politics separate.
“Our team has toured India multiple times, including in 2011, 2012, 2016 and most recently in 2023. Naturally, we had hoped that India would reciprocate by participating in the Champions Trophy in Pakistan. Unfortunately, that has not materialised,” he mentioned.
Having mentioned that, the BCCI, PCB and ICC have agreed on a hybrid mannequin for the marquee conflict for all world occasions until 2027. As a result of tense relations between the 2 nations, India and Pakistan solely play one another in ICC occasions and Asia Cup.
Naqvi, who can also be the federal inside minister, mentioned that the PCB, together with the Pakistan authorities, had offered complete assurances relating to safety, hospitality and logistical preparations for the Indian staff.
“We engaged constructively with the ICC and conveyed our willingness to facilitate every possible measure to ensure a smooth and secure visit. Despite these efforts, India has chosen not to travel.”
He mentioned the absence of India from enjoying Pakistan is a loss for spectators, broadcasters, media and the match itself.
“I think it is also a missed opportunity for Indian players to experience the warmth, love and hospitality that Pakistan has always extended to visiting teams. Pakistani fans would shown their hospitality to the Indian team.”
“Nonetheless, we remain focused on delivering a world-class event, ensuring that cricket takes center stage.”
He identified that the crowds for the Afghanistan and South Africa and England and Australia matches underscored the everlasting ardour Pakistani individuals had for cricket.
“We last hosted an ICC event in 1996. Since then, despite a decade-long absence of international cricket on our soil – through no fault of our own – we have continued to excel, winning the ICC T20 World Cup in 2009, the ICC Test Championship mace in 2016 and the ICC Champions Trophy in 2017.”
He mentioned given the lengthy isolation Pakistan confronted from prime groups, staging the Champions Trophy within the nation is a milestone second.
“It is an opportunity to reaffirm Pakistan’s status as one of the most passionate and influential cricketing nations, fully capable of staging multi-nation tournaments at the highest level.
“Beyond that, it is our chance to showcase world-class infrastructure, passionate crowds and a cricket culture that deserves more major ICC events in the next cycle.”
He expressed confidence that the match can even function a catalyst for the expansion and improvement of cricket in Pakistan. He mentioned PCB invested closely in upgrading its check venues to make sure a top-tier expertise for gamers and followers alike.
“This investment will leave a lasting legacy for Pakistan cricket.”
He additionally made it clear that Pakistan has taken each measure to make sure finest safety for all groups enjoying in Pakistan.