Shahid Afridi, the former Pakistan captain appealed to all cricketing nations through X to visit Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy. The call comes as the PCB and the BCCI lock horns over the venue issue. Afridi reminded everyone about the Olympic spirit and asked that at least this kind of oneness that is found in the Olympic Games could be brought about in cricketing fraternity.
‘Cricket Is At Crucial Crossroads’ Says Afridi
“Cricket is at 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?” Afridi wrote on X.
“As stewards of this game, we owe it to cricket to keep egos in check and focus on its growth and spirit,” he added.
“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,” Afridi concluded.
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…
— Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) November 13, 2024
What Will Be Pakistan’s Next Move?
According to several media reports, Pakistan may stage a pull-out from the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy if the hosting rights are taken away because India refuses to come to the country. The Pakistan government is likely to instruct the Pakistan Cricket Board to withdraw all cricketing engagements with India in any ICC or Asian Cricket Council (ACC) events until the diplomatic row between the two nations is well-settled.
Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: South Africa Still Not Finalized As Host, ICC In Talks With Teams: Report
If Pakistan does full-scale boycott of matches against India, as called by the Pakistani government, could have far-reaching implications for ICC events in India between 2024 and 2031. This would impact viewership levels and potentially affect the projected revenues of the ICC from broadcasters and sponsor.
