Shoaib Akhtar on Champions Trophy 2025 and BJP:
The Champions Trophy 2025 has become a hot topic of discussion, as Pakistan is set to host the tournament. This has led to numerous statements from former Pakistani players regarding the Indian team’s reluctance to travel to Pakistan for this ICC event. There are indications that the Champions Trophy might follow a hybrid model, similar to the Asia Cup 2023. Amidst this, former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has made a significant statement.
In an interview with a TV channel, Shoaib Akhtar’s remarks about the Indian team potentially coming to Pakistan have caught widespread attention. He stated, “The Indian team coming to Pakistan will not depend on the BCCI but the BJP government.” Akhtar emphasized, “This decision depends on the government. It has nothing to do with the BCCI. The BJP government will ultimately decide.”
He further explained, “There will be behind-the-scenes discussions. Even during times of conflict, talks happen behind the scenes. We should not lose hope that India will come to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. A solution must be found. It’s important to note that 95-98% of ICC sponsorship comes from India.”
Akhtar added, “If Pakistan fails to convince India to come, two things will happen: first, we will lose $100 million in sponsorship revenue, which would go to the ICC and the host nation. Secondly, while it would be ideal for India to play in Pakistan, the decision rests entirely with the government and not the BCCI.”
Speaking about Virat Kohli, Akhtar said, “Virat Kohli could play in Pakistan for the first time. The entire nation of Pakistan wants to see Virat Kohli play on their home soil. How amazing it would be to witness him score a century here. Unfortunately, he has yet to score one in Pakistan as he has been dismissed early each time.”
Regarding Pakistan’s hosting capabilities, Akhtar stated, “Pakistan carries the stigma of being unable to host major tournaments like the World Cup or Champions Trophy. If the Champions Trophy is successfully held in Pakistan, it will be a monumental achievement for us. We remain hopeful and are prepared to wait until the last moment. If you ask me now, I would say that the Indian team is coming.”
