PCB Says Everything Will Happen on ‘Basis of Equality’ Amid Champions Trophy Hosting Standoff with India

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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has emphasized its stance on "equality" ahead of the ICC's key meeting on November 29, where the fate of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy will be discussed. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi made the board's position clear during a late-night press conference at the Gaddafi Stadium.

He reiterated that Pakistan will not accept unequal terms for hosting the tournament. "Our stance is very clear," Naqvi stated. "It's not acceptable that we play cricket in India, and they don't play cricket here. Whatever happens will be on the basis of equality. We've communicated this clearly to the ICC."

Scheduled for February and March 2025, the Champions Trophy is set to take place in Pakistan. However, India's refusal to travel, citing government restrictions, has placed the event in jeopardy. Reports have hinted at a hybrid model where India's matches could be played at neutral venues,

However, Naqvi has remained firm in rejecting such a solution. "It is just not possible for Pakistan to continue traveling to India for tournaments while they refuse to reciprocate," Naqvi remarked. "This unequal situation cannot persist."

Naqvi also highlighted his ongoing discussions with ICC Chairman Greg Barclay and confirmed that the PCB had not received any formal objections from India. The ICC meeting will determine the tournament's future, with Pakistan committed to securing the best outcome.

"All decisions taken by the ICC will be forwarded to the Pakistan government for final approval," Naqvi said, adding, "We will not sell our hosting rights for financial incentives."

Naqvi expressed hope that Jay Shah, who will assume the role of ICC chairman on December 5, would prioritize the interests of international cricket over national biases. "Jay Shah must make decisions for the ICC's benefit," Naqvi emphasized.

The impasse has also sparked concerns about Pakistan's participation in future tournaments hosted by India, including the 2025 Women's ODI World Cup and the 2026 T20 World Cup. With tensions rising, the ICC's decision on Friday could shape the future of cricket relations between the two nations.