The Rohit Sharma-led Indian cricket team is unlikely to travel to Pakistan for the upcoming edition of the ICC Champions Trophy, despite efforts from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to convince the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh has supported the BCCI’s stance, citing ongoing security concerns. He emphasized that incidents occur almost daily in Pakistan, making it unsafe for the Indian team.
Harbhajan Singh Supports BCCI’s Stance
Legendary Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has openly supported the BCCI’s decision not to send the Indian team to Pakistan. He stated that the security issues in Pakistan are significant and the safety of players is paramount. “Why should the Indian team go to Pakistan? The security issue there is significant. The situation in Pakistan is such that incidents occur almost every day. I don’t think it’s safe to go there. The stance of the BCCI is absolutely correct, and nothing is more important than the safety of our players,” Harbhajan said in a conversation with IANS.
Also read: BCCI Naman Awards 2024: Celebrating Excellence in Indian Cricket
PCB Leaves it to ICC to Convince BCCI
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has now left it up to the International Cricket Council (ICC) to convince the BCCI to send Team India to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025.
“The PCB has done what was required of it as hosts of the Champions Trophy. It has submitted the draft schedule and format for the event and the budget. It is now up to the ICC to circulate, discuss, and finalize the schedule. The PCB has suggested hosting all of India’s games in Lahore, including a semi-final (if India qualifies) and final. The PCB has provided the ICC with details on tax modalities, venue selections, and government clearance for hosting the Indian team in Pakistan for the event,” a PCB insider told PTI.
