The former Pakistan cricket captain, Rashid Latif, has called for the ICC to take strong action regarding hosting rights for India and Pakistan. This comes amidst growing tensions over the 2025 Champions Trophy. The BCCI has refused to send Team India to Pakistan, citing security concerns.
The idea of a hybrid model has surfaced as a potential solution. However, Pakistan has rejected this proposal. They insist on hosting the entire tournament within their country. In response, the PCB has approached the ICC for a definitive resolution.
In an interview with The Hindustan Times, Rashid Latif shared his firm opinion. He suggested that the ICC should remove hosting rights from both nations until their disputes are resolved.
Latif’s Suggestion to Remove Hosting Rights
Latif highlighted the number of ICC events set to be hosted by both nations in the 2024-2031 cycle. He suggested a suspension of these rights to encourage resolution of their disagreements. According to him, this action would motivate the boards to settle their issues.
- Pakistan is expected to host two ICC events during this cycle.
- India is slated to host four to five global tournaments.
He stressed the importance of fairness and a unified approach. Latif believes that as long as these countries refuse to play in each other’s territories, hosting global events there is not viable.
Challenges with the Hybrid Model
Latif dismissed the idea of a hybrid hosting model for the 2025 Champions Trophy. This model would involve India playing their matches in Dubai or another neutral venue while the rest of the tournament is held in Pakistan.
Reports have also speculated that the tournament could entirely shift to South Africa. Latif refuted these suggestions, emphasizing the legalities of ICC agreements. He pointed out that no provision for a hybrid model exists in the agreement.
The former captain reminded everyone that hosting rights were granted under an eight-year cycle. He urged all parties to follow ICC rules and avoid confusing bilateral issues with ICC events.
Pakistan’s Compliance with ICC Rules
Rashid Latif highlighted Pakistan’s history of adhering to ICC commitments. Pakistan participated in the 2016 T20 World Cup and the 2023 ODI World Cup in India. These events show their compliance with international agreements.
He criticized the lack of legal scrutiny in the current discussions. Many, according to Latif, are focusing on emotional narratives rather than the official agreements. He urged stakeholders to prioritize legal frameworks over speculation.
Latif’s comments underline the necessity for clarity and adherence to agreed terms. He believes such disputes harm the credibility of international cricket events.
Long-Standing Tensions Between India and Pakistan
The rivalry between India and Pakistan has affected cricketing ties for over a decade. The last bilateral series between the two nations was held in 2012-13. Since then, they have only competed in ICC and Asia Cup events.
Fans witnessed their most recent clash during the 2024 T20 World Cup in the West Indies and USA. However, the absence of bilateral series has left cricket enthusiasts disappointed. Many hope for a resolution that will bring back regular matches.
Latif’s statements reflect the frustration felt by players and fans alike. The ICC faces a challenging task in addressing these ongoing issues effectively.
Conclusion
The ICC must decide how to navigate this complex situation. Whether by enforcing stricter rules or facilitating negotiations, a solution is essential. Ensuring fairness and unity in global cricket should remain the ultimate goal.
As Rashid Latif suggests, removing hosting rights could be a strong incentive for India and Pakistan to settle their differences. Cricket fans worldwide await a resolution to this ongoing conflict.
| Event | Last Meeting | Last Bilateral Series |
|---|---|---|
| ICC 2024 T20 World Cup | West Indies & USA | N/A |
| Asia Cup | N/A | 2012-13 |
