In a powerful statement that has sent ripples through the cricketing world, former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi voiced his frustration over the ongoing standoff between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. With Pakistan awarded the hosting rights, Shahid Afridi’s message underscored the significance of unity and urged India to reconsider its stance for the betterment of cricket.
Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi made his point about the Champions Trophy muddle crystal clear without naming India. Terming the current scenario between the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) ‘the greatest challenge in cricket since the 1970s’, Shahid Afridi urged the parties concerned to put the differences aside and come together for the greater good of the game, as it happens in the Olympics.
Shahid Afridi invites India to 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan
Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi believes that the upcoming 2025 Champions Trophy should unite India and Pakistan. He suggested that the two neighboring countries should put their issues aside and come together for the growth of cricket.
Pakistan have the hosting rights for the 2025 Champions Trophy. However, uncertainty looms over the competition, with India making it clear that they won’t send their team to Pakistan for the multi-nation event. Soon after, reports have emerged that the ICC is planning to take the tournament out of Pakistan, with South Africa frontrunner to host the event.
Commenting on the India-Pakistan stalemate, Shahid Afridi cited that example of the Olympics to opine that sport can be used to unite two countries. Taking to X, he wrote:
“Cricket is at a crucial crossroads, facing perhaps one of its greatest challenges since the late 1970s. Now is the time to put differences aside and let the game unite us. If countries once divided by history can come together in the Olympic spirit, why can’t we do the same for cricket – and for the Champions Trophy?”
Shahid Afridi also highlighted Pakistan’s warmth and hospitality, emphasizing how he hopes all teams will participate and create “unforgettable memories” that transcend the competition on the field. In his words :
“As stewards of this game, we owe it to cricket to keep egos in check and focus on its growth and spirit. I hope to see every team in Pakistan for CT25, to experience our warmth and hospitality, and to leave with unforgettable memories that transcend the field,” he added.
Shahid Afridi’s remarks touch upon an underlying economic truth: the India-Pakistan rivalry fuels ICC revenues, and the Champions Trophy would suffer financially without the two teams playing each other.
“If India’s participation contributes to ICC’s revenue, the PCB’s role is equally crucial, and without Pakistan-India matches, ICC revenues would suffer significantly,” reported a PCB official.