Champions Trophy Controversy: Pakistan Dismisses Claims of Surrender as “Nonsense”

Lahore: The ongoing controversy surrounding the Champions Trophy has taken a new turn as Pakistan once again rejected claims of surrender, calling them “nonsense.”
Earlier, Indian media had mocked the situation, suggesting that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had capitulated in the face of financial pressure and accepted the hybrid model for the tournament.
However, PCB Chairman Najam Sethi firmly dismissed these reports upon his return to Pakistan, categorically stating that the board had not surrendered on the matter. “These stories are baseless, and the Indian board is spreading propaganda through its media,” he said.
Sethi recently participated in crucial meetings in Dubai, where he presented Pakistan’s stance along with alternative proposals regarding the event. The PCB is now awaiting responses from the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). It is believed that delays are occurring due to holiday periods in the UAE.
Despite the ongoing discussions, the PCB has remained steadfast in its position and is waiting for official replies from both the ICC and the BCCI. Former cricketer Rashid Latif also claimed that an important emergency meeting of the ICC Board is expected on December 5 to address the issue.
Pakistan has already made it clear that if India does not send its team for scheduled tournaments, Pakistan will also not participate in those events. The PCB has suggested a hybrid model for such scenarios, which India has been reluctant to accept, particularly with regard to the final matches.