PCB Chief Stresses Equality in Champions Trophy Hosting Debate

PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi highlighted that any decision regarding the hosting of the 2025 Champions Trophy must be based on fairness and mutual respect. Speaking during an early morning press conference at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, Naqvi reiterated Pakistan’s firm stance ahead of the ICC’s virtual meeting on November 29, where the issue might be put to a vote.

Naqvi revealed that he had been in regular communication with ICC chairman Greg Barclay, while PCB officials were consistently engaging with the ICC on the matter. 

He stated unequivocally, "Our stance is very clear," Naqvi said during a press conference held at the Gaddafi Stadium at 1am on Thursday morning. "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 Hybrid Model Dilemma

The Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place across three venues in Pakistan during February and March next year. However, India has informed the ICC that their government has not granted clearance for their team to travel to Pakistan. While a “hybrid model”—where Pakistan would host most matches, but India’s games would be held at neutral venues—has been proposed, Naqvi has repeatedly dismissed this option as unacceptable. He also pointed out that India had not provided any written objections to participating in Pakistan.

When pressed about whether the PCB might reconsider its stance on the hybrid model, Naqvi refrained from providing a definitive answer. 

He reiterated,  "Whatever we do, we will make sure the best outcome for Pakistan is achieved," Naqvi said multiple times. "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."

Final Decisions to Rest with Pakistan’s Government

Naqvi confirmed that any outcome from the ICC meeting would require the approval of the Pakistan government. He also called on Jay Shah, who will soon transition from his role as BCCI secretary to ICC chairman, to prioritize the global body’s interests over national biases. Naqvi expressed confidence that Shah, upon taking charge in December, would act in the ICC’s best interests.

No Financial Motivation Behind PCB’s Stance

Addressing speculation, Naqvi clarified that the PCB’s position was not driven by financial incentives. 

"I promise you that we'll not just sell our rights out just for more money. This will never happen. But we'll do whatever is best for Pakistan."