Sat Nov 09 00:44:06 UTC 2024: ## Pakistan Stands Firm: Champions Trophy to be Held Entirely in Pakistan, Says PCB Chief
**Lahore, Pakistan** – Amidst growing speculation about India’s participation in the 2025 Champions Trophy, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi has reiterated the board’s stance: the tournament will be held entirely in Pakistan, as per the original plan.
Addressing a press conference on Friday, Naqvi dismissed reports suggesting a potential hybrid model, stating that the PCB has not received any official communication from either the International Cricket Council (ICC) or the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding any changes to the hosting arrangements.
“We have been reading reports in the Indian media, but nothing official has come to us,” Naqvi said. “So far, we have not spoken anything about the hybrid model, nor are we ready to discuss that issue.”
Naqvi further emphasized that the PCB is fully prepared to host the tournament in Pakistan and will continue with the preparations. However, he also acknowledged that if India decides to pull out, the PCB will consult with the government and respond accordingly.
India’s potential non-participation has been a major talking point in recent weeks, fueled by concerns over security and political tensions between the two nations. The last time India played in Pakistan was during the 2008 Asia Cup, and bilateral cricket between the two countries has been suspended since 2012-13.
The Champions Trophy, scheduled from February 19 to March 9, 2025, is expected to be a major event for Pakistan cricket, with the final slated for Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. The tournament’s tentative schedule includes a highly anticipated clash between India and Pakistan in Lahore on March 1.
The PCB remains hopeful that the ICC will announce the official schedule soon. However, the board’s unwavering commitment to hosting the entire tournament in Pakistan underscores the importance of the event for the country and its cricket fans.
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