Thu Nov 14 10:25:42 UTC 2024: ## Afridi Calls for Unity, Urges All Nations to Attend Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has taken to X to appeal to all cricketing nations to attend the Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan, amid ongoing tensions between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over the tournament venue.

Afridi, in his appeal, cited the spirit of the Olympics and called for unity in cricket. He stated that “cricket is at a crucial crossroads,” and that “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?” he wrote on X.

Afridi’s appeal comes as the BCCI has made it clear that India will not travel to Pakistan for the tournament due to security concerns, casting doubt on the tournament’s venue and overall feasibility. The PCB, determined to host the matches on home soil, has written to the International Cricket Council (ICC) seeking clarification on India’s stance.

Pakistan, awarded the hosting rights for the prestigious tournament, has already allocated close to 17 billion rupees to upgrade stadiums in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi in preparation for the event.

While the PCB has dismissed the possibility of hosting the tournament under a hybrid model, as was done with the Asia Cup 2023, Afridi’s appeal highlights the importance of global cricketing unity in ensuring the success of the Champions Trophy 2025.

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