Shahid Afridi's Champions Trophy appeal: Owe it to cricket to keep egos in check

Shahid Afridi has appealed to all the nations to come to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025. His remarks come after the BCCI's reluctance to travel to Pakistan. He cited the example of the spirit of the Olympics and called for unity.

In Short

• Pakistan have the hosting rights for Champions Trophy 2025
• The BCCI showcased its reluctance to travel to Pakistan
• PCB stresses that it is keen on hosting the entire tournament in Pakistan

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi took to X to appeal to all the nations to come to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025. His appeal comes amid the ongoing standoff between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over the venue. Afridi cited the example of the spirit of the Olympics and called for unity in cricket as well.

"Cricket is at a crucial crossroads, facing perhaps one of its greatest challenges since the late 1970s. 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?" Afridi wrote on X.

"As stewards of this game, we owe it to cricket to keep egos in check and focus on its growth and spirit," he added.

"I hope to see every team in Pakistan for CT25, to experience our warmth and hospitality, and to leave with unforgettable memories that transcend the field," Afridi concluded.

Shahid Afridi's tweet

Champions Trophy 2025 in doubt?

Pakistan, awarded the hosting rights for the prestigious tournament, is determined to hold matches on home soil. However, the BCCI has made it clear that India will not travel to Pakistan, citing persistent security issues. This deadlock casts doubt on the tournament’s venue and overall feasibility.

India Today has learnt that the PCB has written a letter to the International Cricket Council (ICC) seeking clarification on India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy. In its letter to the ICC, the PCB has requested an official explanation regarding India's stance. The communication from Pakistan does not discuss the event format or a potential hybrid model.

Pakistan had the rights to the Asia Cup 2023, and hosted the tournament in a hybrid model where India played their games in Sri Lanka. However, this time PCB dismissed the possibility of hosting the tournament under a hybrid model.

Pakistan has already allocated close to 17 billion rupees to upgrade stadiums in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi in preparation for the tournament next year.