Former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Khalid Mahmood has expressed doubts about India participating in the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025, set to kick off on February 19 in Karachi. Given the strained diplomatic relations between the two nations, Mahmood believes the likelihood of India traveling to the neighboring country is slim.
Khalid Mahmood’s Concern
Khalid Mahmood pointed out that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), being the wealthiest cricketing body globally, wields considerable influence in the cricketing world.
He warned that if India decides against sending its team to Pakistan, other countries like Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh might also boycott playing in Pakistan.
“The chances of India coming to Pakistan are less. They are the richest cricket board in the world and carry a lot of influence,” Mahmood said during an interview with a local news channel.
“If they don’t send their players to our country, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh could [also] boycott Pakistan,” he added.
Mahmood also emphasized that boycotting future ICC events in India wouldn’t be a beneficial strategy for the PCB. He suggested that instead of adopting a tit-for-tat approach, Pakistan should try to garner support from other cricket boards.
“You can try to convince other boards to be with you. India has a strong hold in the ICC. Pakistan will not be able to achieve anything if they try to follow a tit-for-tat policy,” he stated.
When Did India Last Tour Pakistan?
India last visited Pakistan in July 2008 for the Asia Cup. In the 16 years since, Pakistan has traveled to India three times: once for a bilateral series in 2012-2013, and twice for the T20 World Cup in 2016 and the ODI World Cup in 2023.
As the Champions Trophy 2025 approaches, the question of whether India will play in Pakistan remains uncertain. Khalid Mahmood’s comments underscore the broader implications of this decision, highlighting the complex interplay between sports and diplomacy.
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