PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi Assures Fair Decisions on Pakistan-India Cricket Relations, Champions Trophy to be Held in Pakistan
Lahore:Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has reaffirmed that all decisions related to Pakistan cricket will be made in the best interests of the sport. Speaking to the media in Lahore, Naqvi emphasized that it is unacceptable for Pakistan to play cricket in India while India refuses to tour Pakistan. He made it clear that any arrangements will be made on an equal footing, with Pakistan’s concerns firmly presented to the International Cricket Council (ICC).
Naqvi stated that the upcoming Champions Trophy will be held in Pakistan, asserting that the decision has already been communicated to the ICC. “Whatever happens, it will happen on equal terms. We have already given our clear stance to the ICC, and the final decision will be made in the board meeting. The Champions Trophy will be held in Pakistan,” Naqvi declared.
The PCB Chairman also highlighted the preparations underway for the tournament, confirming that Pakistan will field its best team for the Champions Trophy. He expressed confidence that the nation would not be disappointed with the performance. “We are in constant touch with the ICC Chairman, and we will do whatever is best for Pakistan,” he added.
Discussing the preparations for the tournament, Naqvi mentioned that the renovation work at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium is progressing well. “The construction work at Gaddafi Stadium started on October 10 and is expected to be completed by December 20, making the stadium ready for international standards,” he said. Naqvi also expressed regret that the report on Rawalpindi Stadium’s infrastructure came late, otherwise, it too could have been renovated to meet the required standards.
The ICC Board meeting, scheduled for November 29, will focus on the future of the Champions Trophy scheduled to be held in Pakistan next year. Media reports suggest that the meeting will deliberate on several issues, including the tournament’s schedule, the hybrid model for the event, potential relocation or postponement of the tournament, and other related matters.
As Pakistan eagerly awaits the ICC’s decision, the successful hosting of the Champions Trophy will be seen as a significant step in the country’s cricketing revival on the international stage.
