Karachi, November 28, 2024 – Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has reassured the nation that the PCB will protect Pakistan’s best interests in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 (CT-25), which is scheduled to be held in Pakistan.
Speaking to the media during a routine inspection of upgradation work at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, Naqvi emphasized that Pakistan remains firm in its position that the CT-25 will be played in Pakistan in February 2025.
Naqvi’s remarks come ahead of an important ICC meeting on November 29, 2024, where the issue of hosting the Champions Trophy is expected to be discussed. He pointed out that the cricketing world’s governing body, the ICC, should ensure parity when making decisions about the event, particularly in light of India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan for the tournament. India’s request to have its matches played at a neutral venue has been a point of contention.
The PCB Chairman made it clear that Pakistan would not accept the hybrid model as proposed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). He emphasized that Pakistan’s cricketing interests would take precedence during the ICC meeting, and he is committed to securing the best possible outcome for the country. Naqvi confirmed that he is in constant communication with ICC Chairman Greg Barclay and that his staff is also engaging with the ICC to safeguard Pakistan’s stance.
“We are clear on our position, and we will emerge from the ICC meeting with a win-win result for Pakistan cricket that will make the nation proud,” Naqvi stated. He also reiterated that any decision taken by the ICC would be aligned with the guidance of the Pakistani government. Naqvi rejected the notion that the PCB might compromise on the hybrid model for better financial returns, reaffirming that Pakistan’s cricketing interests would always come first.
Regarding the elevation of Jay Shah as ICC Chairman in December, Naqvi expressed confidence that Shah would make decisions that are in the best interest of the global cricketing community.
Additionally, Naqvi provided an update on the ongoing upgradation work at Gaddafi Stadium, which is expected to be completed by December 25, 2024. The stadium’s capacity has been increased to 35,000, with new enclosures and renovated seating. He also mentioned that had he known about the poor condition of Rawalpindi Stadium’s structure, he would have opted to rebuild the stadium entirely.