"We owe it to cricket to keep egos in check" - Shahid Afridi invites India to 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan
Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi believes that the upcoming 2025 Champions Trophy should unite India and Pakistan. He suggested that the two neighboring countries should put their issues aside and come together for the growth of cricket.
Pakistan have the hosting rights for the 2025 Champions Trophy. However, uncertainty looms over the competition, with India making it clear that they won't send their team to Pakistan for the multi-nation event. Soon after, reports have emerged that the ICC is planning to take the tournament out of Pakistan, with South Africa frontrunner to host the event.
Commenting on the India-Pakistan stalemate, Afridi cited that example of the Olympics to opine that sport can be used to unite two countries. Taking to X, he wrote:
"Cricket is at a crucial crossroads, facing perhaps one of its greatest challenges since the late 1970s. Now is the time to put differences aside and let the game unite us. If countries once divided by history can come together in the Olympic spirit, why can’t we do the same for cricket - and for the Champions Trophy?"
"As stewards of this game, we owe it to cricket to keep egos in check and focus on its growth and spirit. I hope to see every team in Pakistan for CT25, to experience our warmth and hospitality, and to leave with unforgettable memories that transcend the field," he added.
It is worth mentioning that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that they have received an email from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding India's unwillingness to tour Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy.
"Give Pakistan two points" - Basit Ali's suggestion for India-Pakistan 2025 Champions Trophy match
Former Pakistani batter Basit Ali believes that even if a hybrid model is used for the 2025 Champions Trophy, Pakistan should play all of their matches on home soil.
He reckoned that if India refuses to visit Pakistan for their match against the Men in Green, Pakistan should be awarded two points as the Men in Blue forfeited the game.
In a video shared on his YouTube channel, the cricketer-turned-expert said (from 2:58):
"Do you remember that in the 1996 World Cup Sri Lanka got 2-2 points after West Indies and Australia did not go. Try to put India and Pakistan in different pools, the ICC will refuse. Pakistan and India are always in the same pool because of money. If there is a hybrid model and India don't visit Pakistan, give Pakistan two points. It has happened before too, so try it now."
According to a report by Sports Tak, the 2025 Champions Trophy could be shifted to Pakistan South Africa if Pakistan don't agree to a hybrid model.