The cricket world is abuzz with discussions surrounding the Champions Trophy, set to be held in Pakistan. Amid strained relations between India and Pakistan, India has refused to send its team to Pakistan for the tournament. In response, the ICC proposed a hybrid model, which Pakistan has opposed. Pakistan has also suggested it might boycott future ICC events in India and demanded a larger share of ICC revenue if the hybrid model proceeds.
Some Pakistani players have suggested they won’t tour India either, heightening tensions. Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh commented that Pakistan’s refusal to visit India would have no significant impact. He emphasized that instead of engaging in such debates, Pakistan should focus on internal security issues, noting that even Pakistani citizens feel unsafe in their own country.
Harbhajan further cited the Sri Lankan team attack in 2009 as a stark reminder of the security concerns in Pakistan, stressing that not only India but other countries would also be reluctant to tour Pakistan unless the situation improves.
The controversy highlights the ongoing diplomatic and security issues between the two cricketing giants, with the ICC caught in the crossfire of political and sporting tensions.
