Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi has said Pakistan will not accept a “hybrid model” for hosting the Champions Trophy, reports BBC.
Political tensions between Pakistan and India mean the two countries have not played each other outside major tournaments in 11 years and India have not visited Pakistan since 2008.
As a result, there is speculation India could play their matches in a country other than Pakistan, possibly the United Arab Emirates.
“Sports should stay above politics and cricket should not be sacrificed at the altar of politics,” said PCB chair Naqvi.
The situation has not been publicly addressed by the International Cricket Council, which is yet to officially publish fixtures for the event. The tournament is slated to begin on 19 February, 100 days from Monday.
Confusion over the schedule is making it difficult for teams, supporters and media to make plans for the event.
The tournament is made up of two groups of four, with the top two advancing to the semi-finals. If India's matches are played outside of Pakistan, it leads to the prospect of the semis or final potentially needing two grounds more than 1,000 miles apart, with the eventual venue not known until India's progress is determined.
On a potential India objection to travelling to Pakistan, Naqvi said: “Our stance is clear - they need to give us in writing any objections they may have.”
“Until now, no discussion of the hybrid model has happened, nor are we prepared to accept one.” The Indian media are reporting it, but no formal communication has reached the PCB.
“In case such situation occurs, I will approach my government and follow its directions.”
Pakistan did travel to India to take part in the 50-over World Cup last year, but when Pakistan hosted the Asia Cup in the same year India played their matches in Sri Lanka.
Bd-pratidin English/Tanvir Raihan
