Karachi. Even after putting all efforts for the Indian cricket team to come to Pakistan and participate in the Champions Trophy next year, the Pakistan Cricket Board failed. After refusing to go to Pakistan for the tournament, PCB is now in a mood to take action. Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi began talks with senior government officials on Sunday to discuss the future course of action.
The PCB on Sunday confirmed that India has informed the International Cricket Council (ICC) about its reluctance to travel to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy to be held in February-March next year. Naqvi had earlier rejected the plan of ‘hybrid model’ for this tournament. Mohsin Naqvi, who is also the federal interior minister, said a PCB official. He is in touch with government officials and now waiting to see what instructions Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif gives.
The official expressed disappointment over India’s stance despite Pakistan promising full-scale security for the teams visiting here during the prestigious ICC event. “This is unacceptable as there is no logical reason for India to refuse to send its team to Pakistan again,” he said. Preparations for this event are going on as per schedule and we have already assured the ICC of the best security arrangements for all teams including India.
The official admitted that if a tough stance was taken on boycotting all matches against India, Pakistan would suffer financial loss. He said that he is prepared for such a situation. Meanwhile, there is speculation in Pakistan that the country’s government may give instructions to the PCB. It should stop playing against India in any ICC or other multi-team events starting with the Champions Trophy until the Indian government changes its policy.
Pakistan cricket world has criticized India’s stand. Former Pakistan Test captain Rashid Latif, Javed Miandad, Inzamam ul Haq have expressed disappointment over India’s decision.
Tags: Champions Trophy, Pakistan Cricket Board
FIRST PUBLISHED: November 11, 2024, 08:54 IST