- Shoaib Akhtar has criticized the PCB’s handling of the 2025 Champions Trophy hybrid model, accusing them of weak negotiation.
- The hybrid arrangement lets India play in the UAE, while Pakistan hosts the remaining matches.
- Akhtar advocates for stronger cricketing ties and competitive performances against India.
- PCB continues negotiations, striving to ensure fairness and pride for Pakistan cricket.
Shoaib Akhtar Questions PCB’s Stance on Hybrid Model
Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has raised serious concerns over the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) decision to agree to a hybrid model for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. He claims the agreement was finalized well before the PCB publicly acknowledged it.
The hybrid model will see India playing its matches in the UAE, while other games will be held in Pakistan. This arrangement emerged due to the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) reluctance to send their team to Pakistan, citing security concerns. The International Cricket Council (ICC) supported the compromise, considering political challenges.
Akhtar criticized the PCB for prioritizing hosting rights without demanding better terms. He argued that while maintaining hosting rights was essential, Pakistan deserved a larger share of tournament revenue.
PCB’s Decision-Making Draws Criticism
The hybrid model has faced backlash from cricket enthusiasts and former players like Shoaib Akhtar. He alleged that the PCB’s initial resistance to the arrangement was performative, as the agreement had already been reached.
Akhtar stressed that the PCB could have negotiated more assertively. “The PCB should have taken a firmer stance to secure better terms,” he remarked. He added that Pakistan should have demanded a higher revenue share if India was unwilling to play in Pakistan.
While some applaud the PCB for retaining its hosting rights, critics argue that the board compromised too much, resulting in an unequal deal.
The Broader Impact on Pakistan-India Cricket Relations
Akhtar also commented on the strained relationship between Pakistan and India in cricket. He advocated for maintaining a pragmatic and competitive approach to improve ties. He encouraged Pakistan to play in India for future ICC events and focus on delivering strong performances.
His belief is clear: “Go to India, and defeat them there.” He emphasized that cricket is about competing and winning, not boycotts or isolations.
Akhtar’s suggestion aligns with his broader stance that cricket should rise above political tensions. He believes Pakistan’s cricketing strength can send a strong message on and off the field.
The Hybrid Model Debate
The hybrid model has been described as a compromise solution. Under this model:
- India’s matches will be held in the UAE, including knockouts if India advances.
- The rest of the tournament will take place in Pakistan.
- If India doesn’t reach the knockouts, all key matches, including semi-finals and the final, will be hosted in Pakistan.
This format mirrors the recently held Asia Cup, which used a similar arrangement. The model aims to balance security concerns with the ICC’s objective of delivering an uninterrupted tournament.
Shoaib Akhtar’s Vision for Future ICC Events
Akhtar disagrees with the PCB’s hesitance to participate in ICC events in India. He called for building a strong team capable of defeating India on their home turf.
“You must extend a hand of friendship but also prepare to win,” he advised. He believes that defeating India on their soil would be a bold statement of Pakistan’s cricketing abilities.
Akhtar also reiterated that Pakistan’s prestige in cricket depends on its ability to perform, regardless of the venue or opponent.
PCB Chief’s Stance on Ongoing Negotiations
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has expressed a cautious approach to the situation. Speaking at a recent Under-19 match, he emphasized the importance of finding a “win-win solution” that respects both parties.
Naqvi mentioned that while the hybrid model is being discussed, the PCB aims to protect Pakistan’s interests and maintain its dignity. He denied finalizing the model but left room for interpretation about ongoing negotiations.
The PCB has reportedly asked for similar hybrid models for future ICC tournaments held in India, aiming for equal terms.
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