Former Pakistan player Mohammad Hafeez took a dig at India for not coming to Pakistan for the upcoming Champions Trophy next year, saying that all other cricket nations have no problem in coming there but but somehow it’s not *secure* for India.
“It was a day dream that India wil come to Pakistan to play #ChampionsTrophy2025. Pakistan is safe & ready to host the event. Pakistan hosting all cricket nations at home but somehow not *secure* for India. Waiting for strong & surprised response from government & PCB,” Hafeez posted on X.
Earlier this publication reported that BCCI, in a recent communication to the Pakistan Cricket Board, has cited security concerns behind its decision and expressed a desire that India play all their games in Dubai.
“This has been our stance and there is no reason to change that. We have written to them and asked them to shift our games to Dubai,” a source told The Indian Express.
Sources said the BCCI has reiterated its stand over Pakistan “in consultation with the government”. Last year before the Asia Cup, India, despite pressure from hosts Pakistan, was able to shift its matches to Sri Lanka.
Former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif has also criticized India for not traveling to Pakistan.
“ICC exists only because there is Pakistan and India. If the government of Pakistan also says like India that we won’t play, then the ICC will be of no use as no one will watch the match,” Latif said speaking to local news channels as quoted by Cricket Pakistan.
“We can say that India does not want to play bilateral matches, but you can’t deny the ICC events as you already have signed it. India has to make solid ground. If India doesn’t come this time, Pakistan will take a big step by not participating in the tournament,” he had said.
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