Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has conveyed to the International Cricket Council (ICC) that it is the government of Pakistan’s stance that if India does not play in Pakistan then Pakistan will also not play against India in any tournament, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Tuesday.
Sources have told 24News TV channel that in a letter written to the ICC written on the instructions of the government, the PCB has asked the council to give in writing the reasons for India’s refusal to participate in the Champions Trophy due to be held in Pakistan next year.
The Board has also urged the ICC to also consult cricket boards of other countries on the issue.
On Monday, 24News TV channel reported that the federal government had directed the PCB to adopt a firm stance on India’s refusal to play in the upcoming Champions Trophy in Pakistan.
According to a report, the government asked the PCB to refrain from competing against India in future international events if the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) continued to avoid playing games in Pakistan.
Sources said the government has issued clear policy guidelines to the PCB, proposing that alternative teams be invited should India refuse to participate.
Options under consideration include Sri Lanka and the West Indies, which could fill the void left by India’s absence, the sources added.
Sources also indicated that the PCB will send an official letter to the International Cricket Council (ICC) today, questioning the BCCI’s grounds for refusing to play in Pakistan.
The sources said Pakistan asserts that India’s stance undermines the financial value of the competition, emphasizing that a Pakistan-India clash generates considerable viewership and revenue.
Additionally, the government has urged the PCB to collaborate with the ICC and other cricket boards to address the situation, signalling Pakistan’s readiness to ensure the Champions Trophy’s success regardless of India’s participation.
Reporter: Waseem Ahmad