CT 2025: newly appointed PCB chairman Naqvi seeks BCCI's 'participation assurance' at Dubai conference

The recently appointed PCB chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, is aiming to secure assurance from BCCI secretary Jay Shah regarding India’s participation in the upcoming Champions Trophy scheduled to be held in Pakistan next year. However, this endeavor is expected to face challenges during the ICC Meeting in Dubai next week.

Although Naqvi intends to engage with the ICC Executive Board and Shah during the event, given the tournament’s schedule for February-March 2025, immediate commitments from the Indian board are unlikely. While the BCCI is not ruling out participation entirely, any decision hinges on governmental clearance, which typically occurs closer to the tournament date.

Challenges and Priorities: seeking BCCI assurance for champions Trophy 2025

Concerns persist within the PCB regarding the possibility of a recurrence of last year’s Asia Cup issues, where a ‘Hybrid Model’ was employed due to India’s inability to travel to Pakistan.

Naqvi’s objective is to emphasize to the ICC and BCCI the importance of early confirmation of India’s participation, facilitating effective promotion of the Champions Trophy.Despite the challenges, Naqvi remains committed to fostering dialogue and seeking assurances for a successful tournament.

Stadium upgrades and government stance: Naqvi’s briefing and BCCI’s response

“Naqvi aims to reassure BCCI representatives that with the completion of elections in Pakistan and the establishment of a new government, there are no security or logistical concerns for their participation in Pakistan. The last instance of India touring Pakistan was in 2008 during the Asia Cup. Conversely, Pakistan has visited India thrice for ICC World Cup events in 2011 (ODI World Cup), 2016 (T20 World Cup), and 2023 (ODI World Cup).”

The source indicated that Naqvi intends to provide the ICC board with updates on the renovation progress of stadiums in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi, as well as conveying the Pakistan government’s position regarding India’s potential matches in Pakistan. In response to inquiries from a BCCI source, a standard response was given.

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“Playing in Pakistan is a decision solely within the purview of the Indian government, and the BCCI must adhere to governmental directives. Furthermore, it’s premature to seek government approval at this stage. If the new chairman anticipates assurances in March 2024 for a tournament scheduled in February-March 2025, he is mistaken,” stated the BCCI source.