Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan forced to bow before might of ICC boss Jay Shah as Champions Trophy schedule is revealed

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Pakistan has been forced to bow before India, literally. On Tuesday, as the Champions Trophy 2025 schedule was revealed, PCB boss Mohsin Naqvi stood like a stooge and had to thank the ICC (International Cricket Council).

"We are pleased that an agreement has been reached based on the principles of equality and respect, showcasing the spirit of cooperation and collaboration that defines our sport," said Naqvi.

And he was forced to thank the ICC, now headed by powerful Indian Jay Shah, the chairman.

All the bad words said for Jay Shah, former BCCI secretary, before he took over the as the ICC boss on December 1 will not be forgotten. Pakistan was speaking in pathetic language. The same Naqvi had said the hybrid model would never be accepted. The cookie crumbled. First, the PCB had to accept the BCCI decision of no travel to Pakistan. Then, as the narrative changed, the PCB had to beg the ICC and the UAE cricket board, Dubai could be a neutral venue. It shows the might of Jay Shah and how the ICC does not get swayed by the foul messages and rough tone of the Pakistanis. If anything, their tail won't wag any more. Their social media handles and YouTube heroes will still talk rubbish. Truth is India versus Pakistan in Dubai on February 23 is a win-win for India.

There is more good news for India, all their matches will be only in Dubai, the Capital of the UAE. This will allow the team to settle down at one base and peak. Past records are loaded in favour of India against the bitter rivals from across the border. 'Lahore, Lahore,' was the chant from across the border. Alas, that dream has gone bust. India chose and wanted Dubai and got it. This is a clear sign how India calls the shots and can make the so-called hosts, Pakistan, feel so low. Had their country been safe, India would have travelled. No, it's a terror hub which houses the most-deadly terrorists who attacked India so many times. Nobody has forgotten the 1993 serial blasts in Bombay. It was plotted by don Dawood Ibrahim, being shielded by Pakistan. They refuse to accept it, though. Political regimes changed in Pakistan but they got worse. And then they attacked Mumbai, where the 26/11 incidents will never be forgiven or forgotten. More has happened, so India chose never to cross the border for cricket diplomacy.

There is hatred for India in Pakistan, day in and day out from the common man to the political establishment, they spew venom. India knows it cannot trust Pakistan for anything. And even in the latest battle, which dragged for so long, India was firm. The message came from the highest office in India, sporting ties with a terror state can never be on. Just that in ICC events, which is marketed best, India versus Pakistan is a necessity. India knows they will beat Pakistan in cricket, as has been the predictable trend.

Sample this, the Champions Trophy schedule is out. And if India make the final, they will still not travel to Lahore, the biggest match will be held in Dubai. India power, all the way. Of course, for TV live and logistics, last minute suspense, a final in Dubai or Lahore on March 9 is a nightmare. A reserve day has been kept for March 10.