Indian politician urges national team to play Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan

Indian politician, Tejashwi Yada, has voiced support for the national cricket team's participation in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan, despite the Indian government’s refusal to allow the team to travel.  

Yadav has criticized the decision and emphasized keeping politics out of sports. He even took a jab at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, referencing his previous visit to Pakistan.  

“If the PM can go there to have biryani, why can’t the Indian cricket team travel for a tournament?” Yadav asked during a media talk, as quoted by Indian news agency. 

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is holding a meeting today to decide the future of the Champions Trophy. India’s refusal to play in Pakistan has created uncertainty around the tournament.  

Several options are being considered:  
- Tournament in Pakistan without India: While this is an unlikely scenario due to India’s financial importance in cricket.  
- Hybrid Model: This would see most matches hosted in Pakistan, but India’s games played in a neutral venue like the UAE.  

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), however, has firmly rejected the hybrid model. Sources suggest that if it is proposed, Pakistan will demand that no games involving their team, including the high-profile clash with India, are played outside Pakistan.  

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has assured stakeholders that Pakistan will prioritize its cricketing interests. The board has also refused to accept financial compensation in exchange for hosting rights and remains committed to holding the event as planned.