Abu Dhabi: Renowned cricketer Younis Khan shared his perspectives on the forthcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, expressing his optimism that the event would proceed as scheduled and be hosted in Pakistan.
In recent times, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) submitted a formal request to the International Cricket Council (ICC) for an explanation regarding India's decision to cancel their participation in the ICC Champions Trophy scheduled for the following year, as reported by Geo News. India cited 'security concerns' as the rationale behind their withdrawal.
Younis Khan articulated that hosting the Champions Trophy in Pakistan would be advantageous for cricket across the Asian continent. He underscored the significance of consistent matches between India and Pakistan as a means to alleviate tensions between the two nations.
"I am filled with anticipation. It is my hope that the Champions Trophy will indeed occur, benefiting not only Pakistan but also cricket in this region. We are in dire need of regular matches between India and Pakistan to reduce tensions. I fervently hope that India will agree to visit Pakistan, and in turn, Pakistan will extend the same hospitality to India," Younis Khan articulated during a press conference following a match at the Abu Dhabi T10.
Earlier this month, the ICC communicated to the PCB in writing that India would not be traveling to Pakistan to participate in the ICC Champions Trophy, which is scheduled to take place in early 2025.
The PCB has engaged in discussions with the Pakistani government regarding this matter and intends to present its position to the ICC. The board is advocating for India to reconsider, highlighting that the Pakistani team had previously traveled to India for the ICC Men's ODI World Cup in 2023.
In the previous year, Pakistan successfully hosted the Asia Cup under a hybrid model, with matches involving India being played in Sri Lanka.
India and Pakistan last competed in a bilateral series in the 2012-13 season in India, which was a white-ball series. Presently, the two teams only face each other in ICC tournaments and the Asia Cup.
