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Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has backed the PCB’s demand but disagreed with the board’s stance against travelling to India.
Former cricketer’s explosive remarks on Champions Trophy row
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) was determined to conduct the entire Champions Trophy in Pakistan, but following the recent ICC meeting, it has been learned that Mohsin Naqvi & Co has reportedly agreed to the hybrid model with certain conditions.
Some media reports have claimed that the PCB has demanded a greater share of the annual revenue cycle for agreeing to the model under which India would play its share of matches, including the clash against Pakistan, in Dubai. Additionally, the board wants all ICC events scheduled to be held in India to be organised under a hybrid model.
Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has backed the PCB’s demand but disagreed with the board’s stance against travelling to India.
“You are getting paid for hosting rights and revenue, and that’s fine – we all understand it. Pakistan’s stance is also reasonable. They should have maintained a strong position, why not? Once we are able to host the Champions Trophy in our country and they are unwilling to come, they should share the revenue with us at a higher rate. That’s a good call,” Akhtar said while speaking on a Pakistani news channel.
“In terms of playing in India in the future, we should extend a hand of friendship and go there. My belief has always been to go to India and defeat them there. ‘India mein khelo aur wahi unhe maarke aao’ (play in India and beat them on their home ground). I understand that the hybrid model had already been signed earlier,” he added.
Until 2031, India is due to host three ICC men’s events — the 2026 T20 World Cup jointly with Sri Lanka, the 2029 Champions Trophy, and the 2031 ODI World Cup jointly with Bangladesh.
Given that Bangladesh and Sri Lanka are co-hosts for two major events, Pakistan would not be compelled to travel to India if they insist against it. The point of contention could be just the 2029 Champions Trophy, which will be held entirely in India.
Another flashpoint could be next year’s women’s ODI World Cup in October, also to be held in India.
