The legendary Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has shared his bold opinion about India’s star batter Virat Kohli and the ongoing controversy surrounding the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025. According to Akhtar, Kohli is “dying” to play in Pakistan, and so is the Indian cricket team.
Kohli and India’s Desire to Play in Pakistan?
Speaking on a local news channel, Shoaib Akhtar made a striking claim. He believes that the BCCI, along with Kohli, is eager for India to tour Pakistan. However, the Indian government’s reluctance is the real roadblock.
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“India is dying more than Pakistan to play in Pakistan,” said Akhtar. “Virat Kohli is probably dying to play in Pakistan. Landing an India vs. Pakistan match will send TV rights soaring. The reason sponsorship isn’t coming is because India isn’t coming to Pakistan, and their government isn’t letting them.”
Akhtar’s statement comes at a time when cricket fans are yearning for more India-Pakistan matches, especially in bilateral series.
The Champions Trophy Dilemma
The ICC Men’s Champions Trophy is slated to be held in Pakistan in February-March 2025. However, the tournament’s fate hangs by a thread as the BCCI has refused to send its team to Pakistan.
On the other hand, the PCB has stood firm against a hybrid model that splits matches across neutral venues. In a surprising twist, a new “partnership formula” is being considered to resolve the deadlock.
Under this model, Pakistan wouldn’t play their ICC event matches in India for the next three years. Instead, Dubai is being floated as a neutral venue for both teams.
A Glimmer of Hope?
Despite the current standoff, Akhtar is optimistic about the future. He boldly predicted that India will play a full-fledged series in Pakistan within the next couple of years.
“BCCI and Jay Shah want it. Backdoor diplomacy is ongoing, but our relationship isn’t there yet. Once it’s resolved, they will come. I predict that within a year or two, India will play a full series in Pakistan,” he said.
Read More: Champions Trophy 2025: Crucial ICC Decisions Loom Amid India-Pakistan Standoff
If the “partnership formula” goes through, Pakistan and India could play their ICC matches at neutral venues like Dubai. This compromise might ensure the Champions Trophy takes place as planned, while also setting a precedent for future tournaments.
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