Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh has once again stated that the Indian team is unlikely to travel to Pakistan for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. The future of the tournament remains uncertain because of India’s stance on security concerns, stands firm. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has remained firm in refusing to embrace a hybrid model and insisted on hosting the entire event in Pakistan.
Harbhajan Singh Backs India’s Stance
Speaking to ANI, Harbhajan re-iterated his position: “I have said this before, and I don’t believe Team India will travel to Pakistan”.
“I don’t think the situation is suited to go there and play. People in Pakistan love cricket and the Indian team. But considering the situation, I don’t think Team India will travel. Governments are involved, and they are making the decisions,” Harbhajan added.
Security Concerns A Major Reason For India’s Refusal
Last Friday, the Ministry of External Affairs released a statement stating that owing to existing security issues, the country was not likely to let its team go to Pakistan for the high-profile tournament, BCCI informed. On the same day, the International Cricket Council held a meeting to discuss the future of the tournament.
“The BCCI has issued a statement. They have said that there are security concerns there, and therefore, it is unlikely that the team will be going there,” Randhir Jaiswal said.
Champions Trophy Likely To Be Held In Hybrid Formula
In a new turn, reports reported on Sunday that a new formula had been devised under which India will play all its scheduled ICC matches in Dubai instead of Pakistan. According to Geo News, all Pakistan’s matches, scheduled for India, will take place in Dubai. It is going to be so for the next three years beginning with the 2025 Champions Trophy.
(With ANI Inputs)
