"ICC needs both nations", Former captain warns of Pakistan boycott if India skips Champions Trophy 2025

The longstanding rivalry between India and Pakistan has resurfaced, this time off the field, as tensions rise over the Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to be held in Pakistan. According to reports, India has expressed its reluctance to travel to Pakistan, leading to discussions about a hybrid hosting model for the tournament.

In response, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi voiced his frustration at the possibility of adjusting yet again to India's demands.

"In recent years, Pakistan has extended numerous good gestures. However, we hope we are not expected to always do so," Naqvi said. 

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif took a firm stance on the issue, suggesting that Pakistan could potentially boycott future ICC events if India refuses to participate in Pakistan-based fixtures.

 "If it is a bilateral series or Asia Cup, then the teams are asked, whether India wants to play or not. This is an ICC event. The cycle has been signed from 2024-2031. All the broadcasters and sponsors have signed about the teams that will participate in the Champions Trophy or the World Cup," Latif said during a local News show.

Latif drew historical parallels, pointing to the 1996 World Cup, where Australia and the West Indies opted out of playing in Sri Lanka due to security concerns yet remained in contention for the finals.

"If a team denies to participate, they need to have a solid reason to justify their call. Just like in 1996, the West Indies and Australia did not go to Sri Lanka but still reached the final. If you make a reason for security, then it is not a solid reason. Teams like Australia, New Zealand, England, and South Africa are coming to Pakistan. They want to come to Pakistan," he said.

India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral series since Pakistan’s 2012-13 tour of India, engaging only in ICC tournaments and the Asia Cup. Latif further emphasized that a Pakistan-India boycott could have severe consequences for international cricket.

"ICC is existing only because there is Pakistan and India. If the government of Pakistan also says like India that we won't play, then the ICC will be of no use as no one will watch the match," Rashid said.

"We can say that India does not want to play bilateral matches, but you can't deny the ICC events as you already have signed it. India has to make solid ground. If India doesn't come this time, Pakistan will take a big step by not participating in the tournament," he added.

The BCCI has informed the ICC that India will not send its team to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy, following government advice. This may lead to a "hybrid model" where some matches are held in Pakistan and others in the UAE or Sri Lanka, adding complexity to the tournament's planning.