(AFP Photo)
Next year, Pakistan will host the ICC Champions Trophy for the first time in eight years. This will be the first major ICC event in Pakistan since the country co-hosted the 1996 ODI World Cup.
Despite this exciting development, there is some uncertainty about whether the tournament will be held entirely in Pakistan. Reports suggest that the BCCI might not send its team due to potential restrictions from the Indian government.
Due to strained diplomatic relations, cricketing ties between India and Pakistan have been on hold for an extended period. Currently, the two nations only face each other in ICC tournaments or continental competitions. There is speculation that the 2025 Champions Trophy might follow a format similar to last year’s Asia Cup.
However, former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has highlighted a significant challenge that could impact Pakistan’s ability to retain hosting rights for the tournament.
In the next five months, Bangladesh, England, and West Indies are set to tour Pakistan, and Basit Ali believes it is crucial that these visiting teams receive top-notch security throughout their series. He warns that even a small security issue could lead to the Champions Trophy being relocated from Pakistan.
“Champions Trophy is in Pakistan,” Basit said on his YouTube channel. “After Bangladesh, England and West Indies are also scheduled to tour Pakistan and we must tighten our security. God forbid, any mishap (during these tours) will result in Pakistan losing hosting rights for Champions Trophy. Our soldiers are being martyred in Balochistan and Peshawar. Our government can explain better the reasons why but (what’s happening) it’s wrong.”
“We cannot afford even a minor slip-up. We should offer the same level of security to the visiting teams as for the Prime Minister. There cannot be a minor incident. PCB chairman Mohsin will be aware of this,” he added.
