'Indian cricket can still survive without Pakistan' - Harbhajan Singh's blunt take on India's participation in 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan

Pakistan are set to host the upcoming edition of the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025. However, India's participation in the marquee event is still uncertain.

The long-standing political tension between the two neighbouring countries has meant that India have not played on Pakistani soil for more than 16 years. Last year, the Men in Green, led by Babar Azam, visited India after seven years to participate in the ODI World Cup. However, India's appearance in next year's ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan is still under cloud.

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Harbhajan Singh feels that India won't send their players to Pakistan if they don't feel safe. The legendary off-spinner challenged Pakistan to go forward with hosting the multi-nation tournament if they feel they can cope with the non-participation of their arch-rivals.

“If our players are not safe in Pakistan, we won't send the team. If you want to play, play; if not, don't. Indian cricket can still survive without Pakistan. If you guys can survive without Indian cricket, then do it,” Harbhajan said in a video on 'X' (formerly Twitter).

Harbhajan might have retired from professional cricket but is still plying his trade in the various franchise leagues involving legendary players. He was recently seen in action during the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2024 tournament in England. The 44-year-old bowled impressively for the India Champions side in batting-friendly conditions with shortened boundaries.

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In seven matches, he picked up eight wickets at an average of 15 and an economy rate of 6.67. India Champions went on to win the tournament by beating Pakistan Champions on Saturday, July 13, at Edgbaston, Birmingham.