PCB unaware of BCCI’s official decision on Champions Trophy travel: Mohsin Naqvi

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi stated on Friday that PCB has not received any formal communication regarding whether the Indian cricket team will refuse to play their Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan next year, as speculated in the Indian media.

Pakistan, who clinched the last Champions Trophy in England in 2017, is set to host the tournament from February 19 to March 9. Due to ongoing political tensions, India has not toured Pakistan since 2008, and the teams now only compete in multi-team events.

Pakistan also hosted the Asia Cup last year, but India played their matches in Sri Lanka under a “hybrid model” due to government restrictions on visiting Pakistan. During a media briefing at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, Naqvi acknowledged the recent reports circulating in Indian media about the team’s travel plans.

“We have made it clear that any concerns from the Indian cricket board need to be communicated to us in writing. To date, there has been no discussion about a hybrid model, but we’re open to it,” said Naqvi. “If Indian media is reporting this, there might be some documentation we haven’t yet received from the ICC or the Indian Board,” he added.

Emphasizing the importance of keeping sports separate from politics, Naqvi reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to hosting a successful Champions Trophy. When asked about the possibility of adopting a hybrid model, he mentioned that any decision would ultimately rest with the government.

“For years, Pakistan has shown goodwill gestures, and we hope it isn’t always expected from us,” Naqvi said. He also expressed optimism that the ICC would soon release the tournament schedule. “I’ve been in touch with several cricket boards, and many members have shown enthusiasm to come and play in Pakistan,” he noted.

Indian media reported that India’s team intends to play at a neutral venue rather than traveling to Pakistan. Last month, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) expressed confidence in finding a solution if India opts out, highlighting that India’s participation is crucial for preserving the tournament’s broadcasting rights.

ECB Chief Executive Richard Gould stated in Multan, “There are various contingency plans if India doesn’t travel. We need to protect the broadcast rights, so it’s unlikely to proceed without India’s involvement.” He added that he hopes for a “fullest possible competition” in Pakistan.

Meanwhile, earlier in July, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah reaffirmed India’s commitment to the Champions Trophy, indicating that senior players would participate with a target to win both the World Test Championship final and the Champions Trophy.