The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is making headlines as its chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, firmly asserts the board’s commitment to equality in international cricket. With the ICC set to discuss the hosting arrangements for the 2025 Champions Trophy on November 29, all eyes are on Pakistan’s stance.

Unwavering Principles

Speaking from Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, Naqvi made it clear that Pakistan’s hosting rights will not be compromised. “Our goal is simple: equality in cricket. We’ve conveyed this to the ICC through direct discussions with chairman Greg Barclay,” he said.

Naqvi stressed that Pakistan’s willingness to travel to India must be reciprocated. “Playing in India while their team refuses to come here? That’s not acceptable,” he declared.

Rejecting the Hybrid Model

India’s government recently declined to permit their team to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. In response, proposals of a hybrid model—where Pakistan hosts the tournament but India’s matches are played elsewhere—have surfaced. Naqvi, however, rejected this idea outright. “They need to put their objections in writing. We’re not agreeing to a hybrid arrangement,” he said.

Ripple Effects on Future Tournaments

Naqvi also hinted at the possibility of Pakistan reconsidering participation in future ICC events hosted by India, including the Women’s ODI World Cup in 2025 and the 2026 T20 World Cup. “If equality isn’t upheld, our involvement in these tournaments will be under review,” he stated.

Beyond Financial Motives

Naqvi emphasized that PCB’s decisions are not driven by monetary incentives. “We won’t trade our principles for financial benefits. Our focus is solely on the betterment of Pakistan cricket,” he concluded, leaving no room for ambiguity.