In a highly anticipated meeting, Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif extended his unwavering support to Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi as the country readies itself to host the prestigious ICC Champions Trophy in 2025. With the tournament’s preparation and venue planning still in flux, the meeting highlighted Pakistan’s resolve to maintain its dignity and the PCB’s unyielding stance in the face of challenges, particularly the ongoing dispute over the participation of India.


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Pakistan’s Commitment to Champions Trophy 2025


The meeting between PM Shehbaz and PCB Chairman Naqvi was crucial, as it came at a time when the fate of the tournament hung in the balance. Despite looming uncertainties, including India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan for the event, the Prime Minister expressed full confidence in Naqvi’s leadership and his diplomatic negotiations at the ICC.


“The stance you have adopted regarding the Champions Trophy resonates with the sentiments of 240 million Pakistanis,” said PM Shehbaz, emphasizing the significance of this moment for the nation. His words reflected the collective pride of the Pakistani people, underscoring the importance of hosting the event as a symbol of national honor.


Naqvi reassured the Prime Minister of the PCB's preparedness, stating, “We are fully ready to host the Champions Trophy in Pakistan. Our commitment is to ensure that both Pakistan and cricket emerge victorious.” His statement was met with a sense of optimism, despite the challenges that continue to surround the event.


The Hybrid Formula and India’s Reluctance


One of the most significant points discussed during the meeting was the ongoing debate over the “hybrid model” for the Champions Trophy 2025. India, citing security concerns, has refused to play in Pakistan, which has prompted the PCB to propose a compromise. According to this plan, India would play its matches in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), while the remainder of the tournament would be hosted in Pakistan. However, India’s stance remains firm, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) yet to accept this arrangement.


PM Shehbaz, however, encouraged the PCB to stand firm in its position. “For us, Pakistan’s honor comes first, and everything else follows,” he affirmed. His support for the hybrid model came with the caveat that both nations should be treated equally in future hosting arrangements.


Despite the diplomatic impasse, the PCB’s insistence on the hybrid formula illustrates the board’s determination to find a balanced solution that upholds the interests of Pakistan while accommodating India’s concerns. Naqvi’s recent remarks regarding the fusion formula highlight the PCB’s commitment to resolving the travel-related issues and moving forward with the tournament.


A Nation’s Pride and the Path Forward


With just 74 days remaining until the scheduled start of the Champions Trophy, the clock is ticking. As the ICC continues to deliberate on the finalization of the tournament’s dates and venues, Pakistan’s pride and ambition to host the event have only grown stronger. Prime Minister Sharif’s support serves as a reminder of the national significance of the Champions Trophy. “The PCB has represented the aspirations of our people with distinction,” he noted, reinforcing the importance of maintaining both dignity and public sentiment in all decisions.


Naqvi’s final remarks brought a glimmer of hope to the meeting, as he expressed optimism about favorable outcomes in the near future. “InshaAllah, good news regarding the Champions Trophy will emerge soon,” he said, signaling that both the PCB and the government remain united in their pursuit of hosting a successful tournament.