Former cricketer Younis Khan expressed hope that the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will take place in Pakistan as planned. Speaking at a post-match press conference during the Abu Dhabi T10 on Thursday, he emphasized the importance of the tournament for cricket in Asia.
“I am very excited. I hope the Champions Trophy takes place and proves beneficial not only for Pakistan but also for cricket in this region. We need India and Pakistan to play regularly so that the tension diminishes. I hope India will visit Pakistan, and Pakistan will visit India,” Younis said.
PCB Seeks Clarification from ICC
Earlier this month, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) asked the International Cricket Council (ICC) to explain India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan. India cited “security concerns” as the reason for not participating in the tournament, as per reports.
In November, the ICC officially informed the PCB that India would not travel to Pakistan. In response, the PCB consulted the Pakistan government to discuss its stance. The board plans to urge India to reconsider, highlighting that Pakistan recently visited India for the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023.
Need for India-Pakistan Matches
Younis Khan stressed that regular matches between India and Pakistan could ease tensions. He believes tournaments like the Champions Trophy can strengthen cricket in the region and improve relations.
Limited Encounters Between Rivals
India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral series since 2012-13. That series, hosted by India, included only white-ball matches. Currently, the two teams only face each other in ICC tournaments and the Asia Cup.
Last year, Pakistan hosted the Asia Cup under a hybrid model. India’s matches were held in Sri Lanka, while the rest of the tournament took place in Pakistan.
Hope for Change
The PCB hopes the Champions Trophy 2025 will bridge the gap between the two cricketing nations. By hosting high-profile tournaments, Pakistan aims to create more opportunities for direct matches with India and promote cricket in the region.