CT 2025: Mohsin Naqvi suggests a middle ground

Amid intense speculation that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has agreed to the hybrid formula for the controversial edition of the Champions Trophy, Mohsin Naqvi hinted at a possible relegation. Speaking about the previously expressed opposition to the two-venue hybrid model, he indicated that a win-win solution was in sight.

Speaking to some Pakistani media after an Under-19 match between India and Pakistan at the Dubai International Stadium on Saturday, the PCB chief said: “There is a lot going on at the moment and I want to make sure that nothing I say jeopardizes the game. “We have set out our view and everyone involved is working hard to find a win-win solution and, above all, ensuring that cricket emerges as a real winner is important in some way and allows everyone to move forward with their pride intact.”

When specifically asked whether the PCB had accepted the hybrid model, he denied the reports, but in his answer he left the outcome of the matter open and left room for interpretation. “We will take the steps that are best for the game of cricket. Whatever formula we choose – not the hybrid form – it will ensure equality for all involved.”

“There are many considerations at play but ultimately our focus remains on ensuring cricket emerges as a true winner.” He then added: “What comes first here is Pakistan’s pride. Inshaallah, we are committed to protecting Pakistan’s reputation while ensuring the game thrives.”

He reiterated that he wants to end a situation where Pakistan visits India and India does not travel to Pakistan. “My effort has always been to put an end to the one-sided approach where we go to India, but they do not reciprocate. Everything that is happening now is aimed at solving the problem once and for all, settling it once and for all. Whatever.” The result is equality for everyone involved. That’s my promise.”

He said the ICC’s decision will be a long-term decision. “I can assure you that the solution we arrive at will be long-term, not just for the Champions Trophy. It will overcome the challenges ahead and create a foundation for everything to come in the years to come.” The Champions Trophy will take place from February 19th to March 9th.

Barclay’s term ends; Jay Shah wants to take power

The ICC is yet to confirm when the board will meet again to take a final decision on the unresolved Champions Trophy matter after its meeting ended in a thud on Friday. It was said the meeting would reconvene soon, even as incumbent ICC chairman Greg Barclay ended his term on Saturday, paving the way for India’s Jay Shah to take over in the next few days, before December 5 will take over. Barclay did not respond to questions and he did not participate in Friday’s online meeting; It was chaired by ICC Dy Chairman Imran Khwaja.

Meanwhile, PTI reported from Karachi that the PCB has backed off its boycott threat and told the ICC that it is ready to accept the “hybrid” model provided that the world body adopts the same arrangement for holding events in India by 2031 The report also said: “The board also calls for a larger share of the annual revenue cycle for security reasons as it agrees with the model under which India plays its share of matches, including the clash against Pakistan in Dubai.”