Shoaib Akhtar supports Pakistan hosting ICC Champions Trophy, emphasises fair revenue sharing, and believs in maintaining good relations and sportsmanship with India.
Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has shared his thoughts on the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 that Pakistan is set to host. In a recent video, he shared a balanced opinion on the issue, considering both Pakistan’s point of view and the broader impact on cricket diplomacy and competition. Akhtar talked about the financial and logistical issues relating to the tournament, emphasising that Pakistan’s position is fair.
“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,” he said.
Importance of good relations
Even though Akhtar supports Pakistan’s strong position, he highlighted the need to maintain good relations, especially about Pakistan’s participation in tournaments in India in the future.
“In terms of playing in India in the future, we should extend a hand of friendship and go there. My belief has always been: 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).”
Hybrid model for Champions Trophy
Akhtar also mentioned the hybrid model agreed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for the Champions Trophy. “I understand that the hybrid model had already been signed earlier. These common statements happen,” indicating that public statements are part of cricket diplomacy. Under this model, India’s matches will be played in Dubai, while Pakistan keeps hosting rights for the rest of the tournament.
PCB’s stand on Champions Trophy hosting
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi almost confirmed the hybrid model for the 2025 Champions Trophy while waiting for an official ICC statement. However, PCB wants this arrangement for future events in India until 2031.
“I don’t want to comment too much because that can ruin things. We have given our point of view (to the ICC), the Indians have also given theirs. The effort is to ensure a win-win for all,” Naqvi said.
Balance and equality in arrangements
Naqvi emphasised that cricket should be the winner, but with respect for all involved parties. He added, “Pakistan’s pride is most important. We have to ensure that cricket wins, but Pakistan’s pride also remains intact.”
When asked about Pakistan’s agreement to the new arrangement, Naqvi replied, “Let’s see what happens.” He further explained that his effort is to ensure there is no one-sided system and it should be settled on equal terms.
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