Lahore, Aug 3: What would follow if Team India refuse to play Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan?
This tricky question has snowballed into a major debate across the cricketing world.
Joining the long list of participants, former Pakistan off-spinner Saqlain Mushtaq has stated if India are not interested to play Champions Trophy in Pakistan, it should be fine.
That is like a tricky 'doosra' (wrong'un) he use to bowl at batters during his playing days, and stun them. He was very effective and a master in that art.
Coming to the present context, Saqlain stated since Champions Trophy is an ICC event, the ICC will decide what to do.
Saqlain remarked it is not that complicated an issue, as projected. Rather it is simple. If they want to come, let them come and if they don't, that should be fine.
But in reality, that may not be that simple as he believes.
The Champions Trophy is scheduled to be held in Pakistan in February-March in 2025. But there are concerns as India have refused to play in Pakistan.
After India refused to tour Pakistan in 2023, Asia Cup that year was held in hybrid-model. Matches were held in Pakistan and Sri Lanka. India played all their matches in Lanka including the Final. India also won the Asia Cup 2023 title.
Will that be repeated? Will the Champions Trophy be hosted in a hybrid model too?
While such possibilities are apprehended, Saqlain Mushtaq's jibe seems like his famous 'doosra' (wrong'un) during his playing career.
Obviously, there would be reactions to his comment. He is likely to get support from his countrymen and Pakistan sympathisers. But he may face adverse remarks, since India are the reigning Asia Cup and ICC T20 World Cup champions.
Besides, India too have emerged as the biggest powerhouse in the global cricket. So without India, Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan seems bit unlikely.
Hence, Saqlain's remarks may evoke mixed reactions.
