Former Pakistan skipper calls for India's participation in 2025 ICC Champions trophy

Former Pakistan cricket captain Salman Butt has asserted Pakistan's right to host the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, emphasizing that all participating teams, including India, should visit the country. 

While speaking on his YouTube channel, Butt highlighted recent visits by India's kabaddi and tennis teams to Pakistan, suggesting that cricket should follow suit.

"Pakistan have got the rights to host the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, and it should be held in Pakistan. Like all the other teams, India should also come to Pakistan. Pakistan went to India for the World Cup, so India should also do the same. A lot of things have been said about the relations between the two countries, but India's kabaddi and tennis teams have visited the same Pakistan. Either you cut off completely, or you try to be normal everywhere. You can't pick and choose, which they have been doing," Butt said.

The former skipper also noted the enthusiasm of Pakistani fans to witness top Indian cricketers like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma play in Pakistan.

"Pakistani fans want to see the Indian players play here. There are many fans of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in Pakistan, and even bring their posters during PSL matches despite knowing that they aren't part of the league. People want to see these stars play in front of them. I am sure that even in India, there are people who are fans of some Pakistani players," he said.

India has expressed reluctance to travel to Pakistan for an upcoming event. While the BCCI hasn't made direct statements, they've voiced concerns through the media.

This has worried the ICC, prompting them to consider alternative plans.

The issue will be discussed at the ICC's annual conference in Colombo from July 19 to 22, where India will be asked to confirm their participation.

The BCCI is expected to cite the need for government approval, potentially leading to talks about a hybrid model with the UAE as a co-host.

The Indian government’s typical lack of written refusals raises concerns about a possible last-minute withdrawal, jeopardizing the event.