Champions Trophy: Kaneria flags safety concerns for Team India
The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan has sparked debate over India's participation. Former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif recently stated that there is a "50 percent confirmation" of India's attendance. However, former spinner Danish Kaneria has expressed concerns about the safety of Indian players in Pakistan. Kaneria has advised the Indian team to rethink its trip to Pakistan. Here are further details.
Kaneria suggests hybrid model for Champions Trophy
As mentioned, Kaneria advised the Indian team to rethink its trip to Pakistan. He proposed a hybrid model for the tournament, similar to last year's Asia Cup. "Pakistan should think about it, then the ICC will make its decision and most likely it will be a hybrid model; it will be played in Dubai," Kaneria told 'Sports Tak.'
India's last visit to Pakistan and bilateral series
India last visited neighbours Pakistan for the 2008 Asia Cup. Their most recent bilateral series was when Pakistan toured India for five ODI matches in 2012-13. Although Pakistan played in India for the 2023 ICC ODI World Cup, the Indian government's stance on traveling to Pakistan remains unchanged due to ongoing political tensions.
Kaneria prioritizes player safety and respect
Kaneria emphasized the importance of player safety and respect in his discussion with 'Sports Tak.' He said, "The safety of the players is the first priority. Respect is the second priority." He also praised BCCI's efforts and expressed confidence that all countries would accept their final decision regarding participation in the Champions Trophy.
Pakistan's plan and BCCI's preference for Champions Trophy
Pakistan is reportedly planning to host all of Team India's matches in Lahore, near Amritsar. This will be the first ICC tournament in the nation after the 1996 ODI World Cup. This is to facilitate travel for the Indian team and fans via the Wagah-Attari border. However, it has been reported that the BCCI wants a hybrid model of the tournament, similar to last year's Asia Cup where India played all their matches in Sri Lanka.
Latif's optimism about India's participation in Champions Trophy
The ICC Champions Trophy is set to return to the ICC calendar in Pakistan next February and March after a seven-year hiatus. Latif expressed optimism about India's participation despite political tensions between the two countries. He stated, "If Jay Shah has been elected unopposed (as the ICC chairman), it means that the Pakistan Cricket Board has also provided its support."
India's schedule and important dates of the tournament
The tournament is anticipated to take place from February 21 to March 14, 2025. India are placed in Group B. Team India is scheduled to play the entire tournament in Lahore. India will play Pakistan on February 25 in their opener and will take on England on March 4. India's last group-stage match is against South Africa on March 7. The final is set to take place on March 14, 2025.
