Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram believes India will be “looked after amazingly well” if they travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy in February 2025, emphasizing that it would be a significant boost for cricket.
Positive Signals from the Indian Government and BCCI
Akram noted, “I sense positive vibes from the Indian government and the BCCI.” Reports suggest that India may play all their matches in Lahore, allowing for convenient travel arrangements. He expressed his support for this, stating, “As long as India is comfortable, I’m all for it.”
Pakistani Fans Eager to Welcome Indian Cricketers
Akram highlighted that Indian players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya, and Suryakumar Yadav have a substantial fan base in Pakistan. “The young cricket fans adore them,” he added, indicating that their presence would be warmly welcomed.
PCB’s Plans for the Champions Trophy
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) aims to host the entire Champions Trophy from February 19 to March 9, 2025, with all of India’s matches proposed to take place in Lahore. This location, close to the Indian border, simplifies logistics and security concerns. The PCB also plans to issue approximately 17,000 visas for Indian fans wishing to support their team. If India qualifies, the final and any semi-final matches will be held in Lahore.
Importance of People-to-People Contact
Akram stressed the significance of people-to-people interactions in today’s world, especially in the age of social media, which often amplifies negativity. “If India comes, it will be great for cricket and beneficial for Pakistan too,” he said.
India’s Recent History in Pakistan
India has not played an international match in Pakistan since 2008. While the UAE is a potential alternate venue for the Champions Trophy, the BCCI opted not to send a team to Pakistan for last year’s Asia Cup, which was subsequently held in a hybrid model in Sri Lanka.
Earlier this month, the ECB’s chief executive Richard Gould mentioned various contingencies in case India decides against traveling to Pakistan, noting that the Champions Trophy should not proceed without India, as it would not serve cricket’s best interests.
The 2025 Champions Trophy will feature eight teams split into two groups of four, followed by semi-finals and a final. Competing teams include Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, and South Africa.
