'I promise we'll do what is best for Pakistan cricket' - PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi on current Champions Trophy 2025 scenario

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi shed light on the current scenario regarding the hosting of the Champions Trophy 2025. The ninth edition of the multi-nation tournament has been marred with controversy after India refused to travel to Pakistan to compete in it citing security concerns for the players. The International Cricket Council (ICC) suggested a hybrid model for the tournament to help India's participation but the PCB promptly rejected it.

On Thursday, November 28, Naqvi asserted that PCB's stance is clear regarding the hosting of the Champions Trophy. He said that if Pakistan can travel to India to play, the Men in Blue can also come to their neighbouring country. Last year, the Men in Green went to India to play the ODI World Cup. Naqvi stated that he will do whatever is best for Pakistan cricket and prioritise equality.

"Our stance is very clear. I promise we'll do what is best for Pakistan cricket. I'm constantly in touch with the ICC chairman and my team is talking to them constantly. We're still clear in our stance that it's not acceptable that we play cricket in India, and they don't play cricket here. Whatever will happen, will happen on the basis of equality. We've told the ICC very clearly, and what happens next we'll let you know," Naqvi said in a press conference.

"Whatever we do, we will make sure the best outcome for Pakistan is achieved," Naqvi said multiple times. "But I repeat, and I am sure you know what I mean, it's not possible that Pakistan play in India, and they don't come here," he added.

Naqvi's comments are a reference to Pakistan considering the terms of its involvement in future events which are set to be held in India. It is important to note that the 2025 Women's ODI World Cup will be hosted in India and they will also co-host the 2026 T20I World Cup alongside Sri Lanka.

Whenever anyone assumes such a role, he should only consider the interests of that organisation: Mohsin Naqvi

Naqvi did say any decision taken at the ICC meeting would then be brought to the notice of the Pakistan government by the PCB for final approval. He also urged Jay Shah, who will relinquish his position as BCCI secretary to start his tenure as the ICC chairman on Sunday, to show concern for the ICC's benefit in his handling of the organisation.

"[Jay Shah] takes charge in December, and I'm sure once he moves from the BCCI to the ICC, he will think about the ICC's benefit, and that's what he should do. Whenever anyone assumes such a role, he should only consider the interests of that organisation," Naqvi stated.

Also Read: ICC to take final call on Champions Trophy hosting arrangements after November 29 meeting

The 46-year-old also said that the PCB's goals heading into the meeting were not financial and the main focus will be on the betterment of Pakistan cricket.

"I promise you that we'll not just sell our rights out just for more money. This will never happen. But we'll do whatever is best for Pakistan," he said.