Fri Nov 08 23:43:46 UTC 2024: ## Pakistan Denies Receiving Formal Communication from India Regarding Champions Trophy Participation

**Lahore, Pakistan:** Pakistan’s Interior Minister and Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has firmly denied receiving any formal communication from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding their team’s non-participation in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to be held in Pakistan.

Naqvi addressed the media on Friday, stating that while rumours have circulated regarding a “Hybrid Model” where India would play their matches in Dubai, no such proposal has been officially discussed with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). He reiterated that Pakistan is prepared to host all teams and matches as scheduled.

Reports emerged earlier this week suggesting that India would not be travelling to Pakistan for security reasons, a decision said to be influenced by the Indian government. However, Naqvi dismissed these reports, stating that no official communication has been received from the BCCI. He emphasized that Pakistan remains committed to hosting the tournament in its entirety.

While the BCCI has indicated that the final decision rests with the Indian government, Pakistan maintains a strong stance that all teams will play in Pakistan as planned.

Naqvi highlighted that the PCB has proactively engaged with other participating nations and is confident of their participation. He further stated that if any official communication regarding India’s non-participation is received, it will be shared with the government and the media immediately.

The last time India toured Pakistan was in 2008 for the Asia Cup. Since the 2008 Mumbai terrorist attacks, the Indian national team has not visited Pakistan.

The ICC has maintained a neutral stance on the matter, refraining from intervening in government policies of individual member nations. The upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is scheduled to take place in Pakistan, with the PCB actively preparing for the event.

Read More