India should not come to Pakistan for Champion's Trophy: Former Pak spinner Danish Kaneria

The Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to be hosted by Pakistan, has stirred discussions in the cricketing world, especially regarding India's potential participation. Despite being chosen as hosts, Pakistan faces challenges due to the ongoing political tension between the two nations, which has hindered any bilateral cricketing series since 2013.

BCCI's Stance on Pakistan as Hosts

In 2023, India's refusal to travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup led to the tournament being co-hosted by Sri Lanka. This decision has cast a shadow over India's willingness to participate in the Champions Trophy in Pakistan. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has already rejected the idea of a hybrid model, further complicating the situation.

Jay Shah, the newly appointed chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC) and BCCI secretary, is expected to play a pivotal role in the discussions surrounding the tournament's future. His leadership within the ICC may influence the final decision regarding India's participation.

Former Players Weigh In

Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has highlighted the role of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in determining India's participation. With PM Modi invited to Pakistan for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Heads of Governments meeting in October, his decision could impact whether the Indian team travels to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy.

"Now, the entire decision lies on the shoulders of PM Narendra Modi. If he agrees then India may travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. Otherwise, the ball will be in ICC's court, and then Jay Shah will have a tough time in taking a call," Basit Ali stated on his YouTube channel.

Alternative Venue Suggested

Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria, in an interview with Sports Tak, advised against India traveling to Pakistan, citing safety concerns. He suggested Dubai as a more suitable venue for the tournament.

"Looking at the situation in Pakistan, I have to say that the Indian team should not go to Pakistan, and Pakistan should think about it, and then the ICC will make its decision, and most likely, it will be a hybrid model, it will be played in Dubai," Kaneria said.

Kaneria emphasized the importance of player safety, saying, "The safety of the players is the first priority. Respect is the second priority. There are many things. I think BCCI is doing a great job. I think all the countries will accept the final decision. I think it will be a hybrid model."

The Path Forward

As the tournament draws closer, the cricketing world awaits decisions from the ICC, BCCI, and Indian leadership, which will determine whether the Champions Trophy 2025 proceeds as planned in Pakistan or if alternative arrangements are made.