Malik and Inzamam lock horns over India's visit for Champions Trophy
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Pakistan cricket legend Inzamam-ul-Haq is hopeful that India will visit Pakistan to take part in the upcoming 2025 Champions Trophy, set to be hosted by Pakistan, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.
During an appearance on the "T20 World Cup Hungama 2024" show, hosted by Isma Aslam, Inzamam-ul-Haq alongside former captain Saleem Malik, expressed optimism regarding India's participation in the Champions Trophy, citing a recent statement by the ICC.
"The ICC's statement suggests that the Indian team will come to Pakistan. While we were previously unable to host the Asia Cup due to pressure from the Indian board on the Asian Cricket Council, this time, the ICC is the event's governing body. Therefore, it should exert pressure on the Indian board to send its team to Pakistan. We are good hosts and have always taken good care of visiting teams," Inzamam said.
On the contrary, Saleem Malik disagreed, casting doubt on the likelihood of India participating in the tournament. "The Indian board and ICC are essentially one entity. I don't believe the Indian team will come to Pakistan," he remarked.
Malik also criticized the idea of changing the Champions Trophy format from ODI to T 20 format, arguing it would harm the essence of ODI cricket.
"The Champions Trophy has always been an ODI tournament. Shifting to T20 would damage the format's integrity, just as interest in Test cricket is waning," he added.
Malik, alongside cricket icon Inzamam ul Haq, expressed concern over the waning popularity of test cricket in Pakistan and the lack of efforts to rejuvenate its status.
Malik emphasized the importance of preserving the one-day format, warning that the demise of ODI cricket could lead to a regional void in the sport.
He highlighted the enduring enthusiasm for test cricket among Australian and English audiences, who remain engaged throughout the day-long matches.
Echoing Malik's sentiments, Inzamam ul Haq criticized the local management for failing to captivate viewers and stressed the necessity of maintaining the longer format to prevent detrimental impacts on cricket.