Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has stepped into the ongoing dispute between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding the hosting of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
During a recent meeting with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, Sharif expressed his support for the PCB’s position and emphasized the importance of maintaining Pakistan’s self-respect in negotiations.
Support for PCB’s stance
Sharif’s comments come as India have refused to play their Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan, instead proposing a hybrid model that would allow them to play at a neutral venue, such as Dubai. This proposal has sparked significant controversy, with the PCB advocating for a more equitable arrangement that reflects the sentiments of Pakistani cricket fans.
According to Geo TV, Sharif told Naqvi that the issue is not solely about financial considerations but also about national pride and public sentiment.“The stance adopted by the PCB reflects the feelings of all Pakistanis when it comes to the Champions Trophy after India’s refusal to play in Pakistan,” Sharif reportedly stated. He encouraged Naqvi to approach the situation with dignity and pride, reinforcing that Pakistan should not compromise its self-respect in these discussions.
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Ongoing negotiations
The meeting between Sharif and Naqvi was reportedly convened on short notice to discuss the next steps for Pakistan regarding the tournament. The PCB has been exploring various options, including a proposed “fusion formula,” which would stipulate that if India do not participate in events held in Pakistan, then Pakistan would likewise refrain from playing in India.
“Basically, Naqvi wanted to keep the PM updated and get his approval if the PCB decides to break the deadlock with any tough decision on the tournament,” a source close to the development was quoted saying to Geo TV.
As discussions continue at the ICC headquarters in Dubai, there is a growing consensus among cricketing authorities regarding the hybrid model. However, this arrangement is yet to be finalized, and further negotiations are expected.