As the cricketing world braces for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to be hosted by Pakistan, a cloud of uncertainty looms over the event due to the scheduling conflict between India and Pakistan. The refusal of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to send Team India to Pakistan, following government advice citing security concerns, has thrown a wrench into the tournament’s planning. Amidst this backdrop, former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has stepped into the fray, offering insights and hopes for a resolution that could see cricket diplomacy at its finest and is Virat Kohli trying to play in Pakistan.
Shoaib Akhtar, known for his candid views, has expressed optimism about the situation, particularly focusing on the possibility of Virat Kohli playing in Pakistan for the first time. “It’s really up to the governments. It’s nothing to do with the BCCI. Virat Kohli is trying to play in Pakistan for the first time. Pakistan wants to see Virat play in Pakistan. Imagine him scoring a century in Pakistan. It will be a full circle for him,” Akhtar stated, painting a picture of what could be a historic moment in cricketing history. Kohli, having never played in Pakistan, represents not just a cricketing legend but a symbol of potential reconciliation through sport.
The complexity of the issue, however, goes beyond cricket. Akhtar acknowledges the geopolitical undercurrents, mentioning, “There will be back channel talks. Even in days of war, there is back channel talks. We should not lose hope. We have to look forward to a solution. We know a fact that 95-96 per cent of sponsorship for ICC comes from India.” This statement underscores the economic leverage India holds in international cricket, hinting at the delicate balance between politics and sport.
Reflecting on Pakistan’s cricketing landscape, Akhtar highlighted the significance of hosting such tournaments for Pakistan’s image in international cricket. “Pakistan has got a tag that it cannot host big tournaments like the World Cup. If this (Champions Trophy) happens, it will be a stepping stone for bigger events. I don’t think this will happen. Keeping the fingers crossed. Wait till the last moment. I think currently, as of now, India is coming to Pakistan,” he optimistically added, suggesting a hopeful, if not entirely certain, outcome.
The last time India played in Pakistan was during the 2008 Asia Cup, marking over a decade of absence from Pakistani soil for Indian cricketers. This gap has only deepened the intrigue around the possibility of the Indian team touring Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. Akhtar’s comments not only fuel this intrigue but also underline the potential for cricket to bridge divides, however temporarily.
As the cricketing community watches with bated breath, the resolution of this scheduling fiasco could set a precedent for future international cricket events. Akhtar’s call for patience and his belief in back-channel diplomacy offer a glimmer of hope.
