Currently, there is a heated debate surrounding whether the Indian team will make the journey to Pakistan for the upcoming Champions Trophy. Initially, the reports seemed optimistic about the possibility, but recent discussions have cast doubt on the team's willingness to cross the border.
Meanwhile, the ICC's annual conference is underway in Colombo, Sri Lanka, where one of the key topics on the agenda is the potential relocation of the Champions Trophy matches to a different country, albeit with a higher budget allocation.
It is worth noting that last year, the Indian team declined to travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup, resulting in their matches being held in Sri Lanka. This time around, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made it clear that they find the hybrid model unacceptable and are adamant that the entire event must be hosted in Pakistan.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi is currently in Colombo, where he is set to hold discussions with Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah in an effort to persuade him to consider sending the Indian team to Pakistan. It is important to note, however, that the final decision regarding this matter lies with the Indian government, rather than the BCCI.
Prior to his departure for Sri Lanka, senior PCB officials reached a consensus to extend an invitation to India for a T20 series at a neutral venue next year. This proposal will be a key topic of discussion between Mohsin Naqvi and Jay Shah, with potential matches being scheduled during the available days following the Champions Trophy.
Furthermore, it has come to light that both Australia and England have extended invitations to Pakistan and India to participate in a series in their respective countries. However, Pakistan has yet to confirm the host for this event, as the plan is contingent upon a positive response from Jay Shah.
In addition to his meeting with Jay Shah, Naqvi will also engage with senior officials from other cricket boards to address logistical and security arrangements for the upcoming Champions Trophy. With the exception of India, no other country has expressed concerns about touring Pakistan, and the PCB remains confident that all participating teams will be in attendance.
Also read| Hardik Pandya makes first public appearance post separation from Natasa Stankovic, captaincy snub
