Wasim Akram optimistic for India's participation in ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan

Former Pakistan fast bowler Wasim Akram expressed optimism about the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, hoping that the Indian cricket team will participate in the tournament scheduled between February and March next year.

Akram, known for his stellar career with Pakistan, highlighted the long-awaited potential for India to visit Pakistan, emphasizing the positive developments in stadium infrastructure under the new Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman, Mohsin Naqvi.

“I hope that India comes to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. The whole country is looking forward to receiving all the teams. The cricket will be great and we will welcome them in splendid fashion. We have great facilities and are working on new stadiums,” Akram told IANS.

Akram underscored the importance of keeping cricket separate from politics.

“The chairman has started work on the new stadiums in Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad so I believe it will be a great tournament and Pakistan needs that tournament for the betterment of cricket and I hope all countries do come because cricket and politics should always be separate," Akram said.

"Overall everything is ready. The whole country is looking forward to receiving all the teams and dignitaries and the press as well and I hope you guys come to see what wonderful arrangements we have in Pakistan," added the former captain of the Pakistan national team," he further added.

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will feature 15 matches, with India scheduled to play all their games in Lahore. This tournament marks the return of the ICC Champions Trophy after an eight-year hiatus, with the last edition in 2017 culminating in Pakistan's victory over India in the final.