PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi Asserts Clear Stance On Champions Trophy Hosting

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has reiterated the board’s firm position on hosting the upcoming Champions Trophy.

He emphasized that it is ‘not possible’ for Pakistan to play in India without reciprocation.

Not Acceptable That We Play Cricket In India, And They Don’t Play Here: Mohsin Naqvi

Speaking at a press conference at Gaddafi Stadium, Naqvi stated, “Our stance is very clear. I promise we’ll do what is best for Pakistan cricket. I’m constantly in touch with the ICC chairman and my team is talking to them constantly. We’re still clear in our stance that it’s not acceptable that we play cricket in India, and they don’t play cricket here. Whatever will happen, will happen on the basis of equality. We’ve told the ICC very clearly, and what happens next we’ll let you know.”

The Champions Trophy will likely take place in Pakistan across three venues in February and March next year.

However, India, which has not toured Pakistan since 2008, informed the ICC earlier this month that its government had not granted permission for its team to travel to Pakistan for the event.

“Whatever we do, we will make sure the best outcome for Pakistan is achieved. But I repeat, and I am sure you know what I mean, it’s not possible that Pakistan play in India, and they don’t come here,” Naqvi added.

Naqvi also pointed out that the Pakistan government will review and approve any decisions made by the ICC.

He also urged Jay Shah, who will step down as BCCI secretary to become ICC chairman on Sunday, to prioritize the ICC’s interests in his leadership.

Naqvi further asserted, “(Jay Shah) takes charge in December, and I’m sure once he moves from the BCCI to the ICC, he will think about the ICC’s benefit, and that’s what he should do. Whenever anyone assumes such a role, he should only consider the interests of that organisation.”

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