Pakistan’s prestige first while everything else secondary: PM on ICC Champions Trophy

English , Snippets , Sports - کھیل اور کھلاڑی , / Sunday, December 8th, 2024

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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commended Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi for his principled stance on hosting the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan, according to APP. During a meeting at the premier’s residence on Sunday, Naqvi briefed the prime minister about recent developments regarding the tournament, scheduled to be held in February-March 2025. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has refused to send its team to Pakistan, citing the lack of a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the Indian government. Instead, the BCCI has proposed a hybrid model, suggesting Indian matches and the final be played in another country, such as the United Arab Emirates. Naqvi emphasised to the International Cricket Council (ICC) that Pakistan should receive a similar concession for its participation in ICC events hosted by India. PM Shehbaz hailed Naqvi’s representation of Pakistan’s interests, stating, “Pakistan’s prestige is the first and foremost while everything else is secondary.” The prime minister said Naqvi had voiced the sentiments of the nation’s 240 million people before the ICC. Naqvi, who also serves as the interior minister, assured the premier that the PCB was fully prepared to host the Champions Trophy. “The PCB wants Pakistan and cricket to be the winners,” he said, adding that the nation can expect good news regarding the tournament.