Wasim Akram Hopes India Will Participate in 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan

Amidst the ongoing political tensions between India and Pakistan, the fate of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy remains uncertain. Legendary Pakistani cricketer Wasim Akram has expressed his hopes that India will participate in the tournament, emphasizing its significance for Pakistan's cricketing future.

The ICC Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9, 2025. Alongside the hosts, India, Australia, England, South Africa, Bangladesh, New Zealand, and Afghanistan are expected to compete. However, India's participation is contingent upon the political climate between the two nations.

Akram believes that hosting the tournament would be a major boost for cricket in Pakistan. "We have great facilities and are working on new stadiums," he said. "The chairman has started work on the new stadiums in Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad. I believe it will be a great tournament and Pakistan needs that tournament for the betterment of cricket."

India has not toured Pakistan for a bilateral series since 2006. The two teams have only faced each other in ICC tournaments since 2013 due to political tensions. According to reports, India is still hesitant to travel to Pakistan, which could result in the tournament being played in a hybrid format.

Akram expressed his disappointment over India's reluctance to tour Pakistan. "The whole country is looking forward to receiving all the teams," he said. "The cricket will be great and we will welcome them in splendid fashion."

The 2023 Asia Cup, which was originally scheduled to be held in Pakistan, was partially relocated to Sri Lanka after the BCCI refused to allow the Indian team to travel to Pakistan. India and Pakistan have not had bilateral tours in cricket since 2012.

The BCCI has maintained that the Indian team will only travel to Pakistan if permitted by the central government. The decision ultimately rests with the Indian government, which will consider the political and security implications of the tour.

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