Former cricket player Basit Ali talked about India’s bid to compete in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy and recommended that the PCB use a similar approach to Sri Lanka’s World Cup 1996 strategy.
Although it is unclear if India would compete in the tournament, the ninth Champions Trophy is set to take place in Pakistan during the February–March timeframe in 2025.
The Indian media had reported that Team India will not be traveling to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy due to security concerns, citing a source from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Furthermore, sources verified on Sunday that the PCB was notified by the International Cricket Council (ICC) that the Indian government has prohibited its cricket team from traveling to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy.
Basit Ali was among the numerous Pakistani players who were upset to hear of India’s rejection. The former batsman said in a video posted on his own YouTube account that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) take a cue from Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC).
For those who are not familiar, Sri Lanka won the World Cup 1996, which was co-hosted by Pakistan, India, and Sri Lanka.
But because Australia and the West Indies declined to visit Sri Lanka due to security concerns, the competition was marred with controversy like to that of the Champions Trophy 2025.
While Sri Lanka promised complete security for the squad, Australia and the West Indies stuck to their guns.
Due to a firm stand on both sides, Sri Lanka was given games against Australia and the West Indies on forfeit by the International Cricket Council (ICC). Sri Lanka advanced to the quarterfinals without having to play a match after earning four crucial points.
In a similar vein, Basit Ali asked the PCB to avoid playing India at a neutral location. Additionally, he recommended that Pakistan quit the event if the ICC were to fully change it.
The former batter said, “If India declines to play in Pakistan under a hybrid model, like the 1996 World Cup scenario, PCB should demand points.” “Pakistan ought to receive two points if India chooses not to participate.”
In the event of a hybrid approach, Pakistan, as the host, ought to conduct all of its matches domestically. Additionally, Pakistan ought to decline to take part if the host location changes.
