Aisam ul Haq Qureshi, a renowned sports icon and president of the Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF), has called on the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to stand firm in its position regarding Pakistan hosting the Champions Trophy.
Speaking at the PTF Complex on Friday, Aisam emphasized that it is the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) responsibility to ensure India’s participation in the tournament by facilitating their travel across the border.
Drawing parallels with challenges faced by Pakistan tennis, Aisam highlighted India’s consistent reluctance to compete in Pakistan. He recalled how, during a Davis Cup tie a few years ago, India forced Pakistan to play at a neutral venue, prompting Pakistan’s top players to boycott the event. As a result, an Under-17 team had to represent the country.
However, under Salim Saifullah’s leadership, the PTF took a firm stance with the International Tennis Federation (ITF) last year. This resolve led to India traveling to Pakistan in early 2024 for a Davis Cup tie, despite their earlier hesitations. A 20-member Indian contingent stayed in Islamabad for over a week, proving that such decisions can be reversed with a determined approach. Aisam urged the PCB to adopt a similarly resolute strategy for hosting the Champions Trophy.
Aisam, a respected sports ambassador even in India, urged the Indian government to prioritize sportsmanship over politics. He stressed that sports should foster unity, not division, and noted that Pakistan has consistently honored commitments to events in India. He called on India to reciprocate and allow fans on both sides to enjoy iconic matches.
Aisam also underscored the ICC’s pivotal role in ensuring fair play, emphasizing that governing bodies must uphold discipline and protect the rights of member nations. Aisam warned that any compromise on India’s participation could strain cricketing relations. He proposed that if India remains unwilling, the ICC should include the next eligible team to maintain the tournament’s integrity and credibility.
Aisam’s firm stance highlights the broader implications of such decisions on international sports diplomacy, urging global sports authorities to act with fairness and unity.
