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Warm Welcome Extended by Rizwan to Team India for CT 2025
In a gesture aimed at easing tensions, Pakistan’s white-ball captain, Mohammad Rizwan, has warmly invited Team India to participate in the Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan. Amid ongoing uncertainty regarding India’s decision to play, Rizwan expressed that Indian players, including KL Rahul and Suryakumar Yadav, are always welcome in Pakistan, underscoring his hope to bridge differences through cricket.
Champions Trophy Hosting Tensions
Following India’s decision to potentially skip traveling to Pakistan, the PCB (Pakistan Cricket Board) has been vocal about securing their hosting rights. While security concerns have been raised, Pakistan’s successful hosting of teams from England, New Zealand, and Bangladesh strengthens their claim for a safe Champions Trophy. Rizwan echoed these sentiments, inviting India to join as past ICC tournaments in Pakistan have taken place without incident.
Possible Consequences of India’s Absence
In response to India’s potential absence, the PCB has explored actions like legal intervention, tournament withdrawal if a hybrid model is used, and future ICC event boycotts where India participates. However, the ICC has also considered moving the Champions Trophy to South Africa or the UAE if a compromise is not reached. The scenario reflects the complex relationship between the two cricket boards, following Pakistan’s participation in the 2023 ODI World Cup in India despite India’s decision to skip the Asia Cup in Pakistan earlier.
Rizwan’s open invitation stands as a potential step forward, possibly opening avenues for renewed cricket diplomacy between the neighboring nations.
