Aakash Chopra on Champions Trophy 2025: Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra said that the Champions Trophy to be held in Pakistan next year cannot be held without India’s participation. He supported the Indian government’s decision not to send the national cricket team to Pakistan due to security and political tensions between the neighboring countries. The future of the ICC Champions Trophy hangs in the balance after India refused to go to Pakistan, as the final decision regarding its schedule will be taken at the ICC Board meeting on Friday. Amid India’s objection to traveling to Pakistan, the tournament will likely be played in a ‘hybrid model’, with India playing its matches at neutral venues.
Chopra told IANS on Thursday, “The right option has to be chosen and it is beyond our understanding what the right decision would be. India’s tour of Pakistan is not decided by the BCCI but by the Indian government. If they have decided not to go to Pakistan then If it has been done then it is completely correct, wherever it (Champions Trophy) will be played, it cannot happen without India. He said, “The truth is that ICC events cannot happen without India. We will know where it will be played and the decision taken by the Indian government is absolutely right.”
The Champions Trophy is to be held at three venues in Pakistan in February and March next year. But India, which has not toured Pakistan since 2008, told the ICC that its government had not given them permission to travel to Pakistan for the event earlier this month.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has insisted that the PCB’s view about hosting the Champions Trophy is “clear”, adding that “It is not possible that Pakistan play in India and they do not come here “.
Naqvi said during a press conference held at Gaddafi Stadium, “Our stand is very clear. I promise that we will do what is best for Pakistan cricket. I am in constant touch with the ICC Chairman and my team is constantly talking to him.” We are still clear in our stand that it is not acceptable for them to play cricket here, whatever happens will happen on the basis of equality. is, and further Whatever happens, we will let you know.”
Naqvi said several times, “Whatever we do, we will ensure that the best result is achieved for Pakistan.” He said, “But I repeat, and I am sure you understand what I mean, it is not possible that Pakistan plays in India and they do not come here.”
