Image credits: ICC
Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has expressed confidence that India will travel to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, despite ongoing political tensions between the two nations. Akhtar’s statement comes as a counterpoint to the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) stance, which advocates for a hybrid model that would see India’s matches held outside Pakistan, potentially in the UAE.
A Stepping Stone for Bigger Events
Speaking on a local television channel, Akhtar highlighted the significance of Pakistan hosting the Champions Trophy, which is scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9, 2025, across venues in Rawalpindi, Karachi, and Lahore. The tournament marks a significant moment for Pakistan cricket, as it would be the first ICC event hosted by the country in over two decades.
“Pakistan has got a tag that it cannot host big tournaments like the World Cup. If this [Champions Trophy] happens, it will be a stepping stone for bigger events,” Akhtar noted.
While acknowledging the challenges, Akhtar remains optimistic, stating, “As of now, I think India is coming to Pakistan. Wait till the last moment.”
Back-Channel Diplomacy Holds the Key
Akhtar also stressed the importance of back-channel talks between the two nations, suggesting that diplomacy could pave the way for India’s participation.
“Even in days of war, there are back-channel talks. We should not lose hope. We have to look forward to a solution,” he said.
Acknowledging India’s significant contribution to cricket’s global economy, Akhtar remarked, “We know a fact that 95-96% of sponsorship for ICC comes from India.”
The Virat Kohli Factor
Akhtar emphasized the emotional and symbolic significance of Virat Kohli potentially playing in Pakistan for the first time. The former pacer envisioned Kohli scoring a century in Pakistan, describing it as a “full circle” moment for the Indian batting maestro.
“Pakistan wants to see Virat play in Pakistan. Imagine him scoring a century here. It will be a full circle for him,” Akhtar added, hinting at the potential to strengthen cricketing ties between the two nations through such historic moments.
BCCI’s Push for Hybrid Model
Despite Akhtar’s optimism, the BCCI has maintained its demand for a hybrid model due to security concerns, proposing that India’s matches be held in the UAE. This approach mirrors the format of the 2023 Asia Cup, where Pakistan hosted most of the matches while India’s games were played in Sri Lanka. However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has categorically refused the hybrid model for the Champions Trophy, complicating negotiations.
The PCB had hoped for reciprocal goodwill from India after Pakistan’s participation in the 2023 ODI World Cup held in India. However, with bilateral cricket ties remaining suspended since 2012 due to political tensions, the matter remains unresolved.
Champions Trophy 2025: What’s at Stake
The ICC Champions Trophy, featuring eight teams, is set to showcase top-tier international cricket in Pakistan, a significant step for a nation that has struggled to host major events due to security concerns. The tournament’s successful organization could boost Pakistan’s credibility as a host for global tournaments, paving the way for potential future events.
However, India’s participation remains pivotal for the tournament’s financial success. With ICC sponsorship heavily reliant on Indian markets, the inclusion of India in the event, whether in Pakistan or at neutral venues, is crucial.
Historical Context: India-Pakistan Cricket
India and Pakistan share one of the fiercest rivalries in cricket, but their encounters have been limited to ICC tournaments and Asia Cups since bilateral series were suspended in 2012. Political tensions have overshadowed the sport, with cricket often becoming a reflection of broader diplomatic relations.
The most recent precedent, the 2023 Asia Cup hybrid model, allowed the tournament to proceed amid tensions. Whether a similar compromise will be reached for the Champions Trophy remains to be seen.
Conclusion
Shoaib Akhtar’s optimism reflects the hopes of cricket fans on both sides of the border, who yearn for the revival of competitive matches between India and Pakistan. As the countdown to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 begins, the cricketing world will watch closely to see if diplomatic efforts can overcome political hurdles, allowing the tournament to mark a historic chapter in the sport’s history. For now, Akhtar’s belief that “India is coming to Pakistan” keeps the dream alive.
