India's Champions Trophy Participation in Pakistan Uncertain, Warns Former PCB Chief

India's Participation in Pakistan-Hosted Champions Trophy Uncertain, Warns Former PCB Chief

Former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Khalid Mahmood has cast doubt on India's participation in the ICC Champions Trophy scheduled to be held in Pakistan early next year. Mahmood, a retired senior bureaucrat, expressed concerns about the potential financial and operational consequences for both the PCB and the ICC if India chooses not to attend.

Mahmood emphasized that India's absence could set a precedent for other cricketing nations, further complicating the event's logistics and profitability. "India is the richest cricket board and carries a lot of clout," he said. "If they don't send their team to Pakistan, I foresee even countries like Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh following their path."

He warned that such a scenario would significantly reduce the Champions Trophy's revenue potential and increase expenses, leading to a decline in profits. Mahmood advised the PCB to maintain its stance of separating sports from politics to avoid further complications.

"At this level, you can only lobby and try to convince other boards to be on your side," he said. "India has too much clout in the ICC. It would do no good for Pakistan to adopt a tit-for-tat strategy."

Mahmood acknowledged that India's decision to play its matches outside Pakistan would diminish the purpose of Pakistan hosting the ICC event. The Champions Trophy is scheduled to be held from February 19 to March 9, 2023.

Tags: #ICCChampionsTrophy, #PakistanCricket, #IndiaPakistanRelations, #SportsDiplomacy, #KhalidMahmood