Following India’s official refusal to play the Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan, several notable figures in the host nation have voiced their reactions. Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez is among those criticizing the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Hafeez called it a dream to see ??India play in Pakistan, expressing frustration over what he sees as an unfounded decision, given that other countries have successfully toured Pakistan recently.

BCCI cites security concerns, PCB seeks government advice

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) recently received an email from the International Cricket Council (ICC), confirming that BCCI would not send the Indian team to Pakistan, citing security concerns. PCB, in response, has forwarded the issue to Pakistan’s government, seeking guidance on how to proceed. Hafeez, meanwhile, strongly asserted that Pakistan is “safe and ready” to host the tournament and called for a firm response from both PCB and the government.

Mohammad Hafeez takes a dig at BCCI over India’s denial to travel to Pakistan

Hafeez did not hold back in his criticism of the BCCI’s decision, stating that while it was always a daydream to think India would play in Pakistan, the reasoning behind their refusal lacks logic. Hafeez pointed out that multiple international teams, including Australia, England, and West Indies, have played in Pakistan recently, yet India continues to raise?? security concerns.

According to Hafeez, this selective stance from India is difficult to justify, as Pakistan has proven their capability to host top-tier international events without incident. Hafeez’s comments reflect a growing sentiment ?in Pakistan cricket circles, calling for a strong stance from the PCB and government in response to India’s refusal.

“It was a day dream that India will come to Pakistan to play #ChampionsTrophy2025. Pakistan is safe & ready to host the event. Pakistan hosting all cricket nations at home but somehow not *secure* for India. Waiting for strong & surprised response from government & PCB,” Hafeez wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

It was a day dream that India wil come to Pakistan to play #ChampionsTrophy2025. Pakistan is safe & ready to host the event. Pakistan hosting all cricket nations at home but somehow not *secure* for India 😇😇ðŸ??˜‡. Waiting for strong & surprised response from government & PCB.

— Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) November 11, 2024

Also READ: Team India not to travel Pakistan for Champions Trophy 2025, will p?lay matches? at a neutral venue

Potential hybrid model and tournament uncertainty

The ICC had planned to announc?e the Champions Trophy schedule on November 11, but the unresolved dispute between PCB and BCCI has cast uncertainty over the tournament’s future. While Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi were initially chosen as venues, the ICC may now consider a hybrid model, w??ith UAE as a potential alternative host for matches involving India.

Asia Cup 2023: A similar scenario

This situation mirrors last year’s Asia Cup,? where BCCI refused to send India to Pakistan, resulting in a hybrid model. Pakistan hosted some games, but India’s matches were held in Sri Lanka. If the Champions Trophy adopts a similar format, matches featur??ing India could be played in the UAE.

Also READ: Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi pre??dicts his four semifinalists of Champions ?Trophy 2025

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The ICC Champions Trophy 2025, is set to take place in Pakistan. However, due to ongoing concerns about India‘s willingness to travel to Pakistan, fans could see the tournament in hybrid mode. Notably, the bilateral cricket between the two countries has been suspended since 2013. But, Pakistan’s recent visit to India for the 2023 ODI World Cup has reignited talks about a possible reciprocal tour. Early reports suggest that India’s matches could be held in Lahore, near the border, if the tour proceeds.

India’s stance on next year’s Champions Trophy 

There have been widespread reports recently that the BCCI is hesitant to send the team to Pakistan. They are considering a hybrid model similar to the one used for last year’s Asia Cup. Under this proposal, some matches would be hosted in Pakistan, while all India’s games would be played at neutral venues. News agency PTI reports that the ICC has approved a budget of around USD 70 million for hosting the Champions Trophy in Pakistan next year. The ICC’s financial and commercial committee reviewed and approved the budget, chaired by Jay Shah, the B??CCI secretary. The Pakistan Cricket B??oard and the ICC finance department prepared and submitted it collaboratively.

“The approximate budget is around USD 70 million and only USD 4.5 million has been allocated as additional expenses,” a source told PTI.

Also READ: Champions Trophy 2025: Sha??hid Afridi takes a swipe at BCCI over India-Pakistan cricket ties

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has remained tight-lipped amid speculation about India’s position in the Champions Trophy. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has instructed his office and colleagues to refrain from making any statements regarding India’s decision.

“That is why in recent days there is no comments or statement coming from either Naqvi or any other board official on what will happen if India doesn’t send its team to Pakistan,” one PCB insider said.

India and Pakistan may clash thrice in the tournament

It?? is also reported that India and Pakistan will be placed in the same group for the Champions Trophy, as has been the case in recent ICC tournaments. Apart from facing each other in the league stage, the two teams are expected to lock horns in the group stage and could potentially meet in the final, where they might clash again.

Also READ: “Ge?t the F� out of here� Harbhajan Singh? teaches Pakistan journalist a lesson for life

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The ninth edition of the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025 will be Pakistan‘s first big multi-nation tournament since the Asia Cup 2008. Pakistan also hosted the 2023 edition of the Asia Cup, but a hybrid model was introduced following India‘s reluctance to travel to their neighbouring country. Pakistan hosted just four matches of the continental event, and the remaining nine games were played in Sri Lanka.

Salman Butt outlines why Champions Trophy 2025 will be more successful

Now Pakistan’s former captain Salman Butt expressed a strong belief in the potential success of the upcoming Champions Trophy. He anticipated the tournament surpassing the recently concluded 2024 T20 World Cup, co-hosted by the West Indies and the United States of America (USA).

In a recent YouTube video, the former Pakistan captain highlighted a noticeable lack of local enthusiasm and excitement surrounding the T20 World Cup hosted jointly by the West Indies and the United States. According to Butt, this tepid response from the American audience contrasted starkly with the passionate support and enthusiasm he expects to see when an ICC event is held in Pakistan. He emphasized that Pakistanis’ deep-seated love for cricket ensures that any international tournament held on Pakistani soil is met with tremendous enthusiasm and engagement from local fans.

“There is no comparison of this event to the United States of America or any other such country. This will surely be a more successful event than the T20 World Cup. The pitches were not up to the mark over there, the stadiums were too far, and the hotels were somewhere else. No locals knew what was happening in their cities, just the overseas people staying there knew about cricket.” Butt said.

Also READ: Latest News & Updates for Champions Trophy

Butt’s perspective on craze of cricket in Asia

Butt further emphasized the craze of cricket fans that exist in the sub-continent region like India, Pakistan, Afghanistan which is unbeatable curre??ntly in any other part of the wor??ld.

“When such a Trophy comes to this part of the world, be it in India, Pakistan, or Bangladesh the love and respect that the players will receive will be totally different. Also, the teams will not have to travel for hours. Everything will be sealed and it will take just six minutes for the team to reach the stadium. The presidential security, such a feel can never be in USA,” Butt concluded.

Also READ: Champions Trophy 2025: India vs Pakist?an match set on March 1 in Lahore; BCCI yet to confirm

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In a heartwarming and emotional moment that captured the essence of his incredible journey, Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj recently ascended to the pinnacle of the cricketing world by becoming the no. 1 ranked ODI bowler in the latest ICC Men’s ODI Bowlers Rankings. This remarkable achievement comes on the back of his stellar performance in the Asia Cup 2023, where Siraj was not only instrumental in India’s title victory but also etched his name in the record books.

Mohammed Siraj’s remarkable rise from ninth to first position

Siraj’s ascent to the top spot is nothing short of a fairy tale. From being ranked ninth previously, he has catapulted to the summit of ODI bowlers, holding an impressive rating of 694 and enjoying a comfortable 16-point lead over the second-ranked bowler, Australia’s Josh Hazlewood.

Mohammed Siraj’s sensational performance in the Asia Cup 2023

Siraj’s remarkable journey to the top was punctuated by his phenomenal performance in the Asia Cup 2023. In the final against Sri Lanka, he was awarded the ‘Player of the Match’ for his extraordinary exploits. During this crucial match, Siraj wreaked havoc by taking an astounding six-wicket haul, a feat that left cricket enthusiasts in awe. He also equaled the record held by the legendary Chaminda Vaas for the qu??ickest ODI  five-wicket haul in the process.

Also READ: Shahid Afridi pens an emotional ??note for daughter Ansha after her wedding with?? Shaheen Shah Afridi; Umar Gul reacts

Mohammed Siraj’s emotional tribute to his beloved father

While the cricketing world celebrated Siraj’s incredible achievement, the Indian pacer had a deeply personal and emotional message to share. On his Instagram story, he posted a heartfelt tribute for his late father that read, “Miss you pappa,” accompanied by a photo of his parents and himself. This emotional gesture struck a chord with fans worldw??ide.

Mohammad Siraj’s humble family background and a proud legacy

Siraj’s journey to cricketing stardom is an inspirational story of resilience and determination. Hailing from a humble background, his father, Mohammed Ghaus, was an autorickshaw driver who tragically passed away in 2021 due to a lung ailment. Siraj has consistently acknowledged and expressed gratitude for his father’s unwavering support and sacrifices that contributed to his success.

What lies ahead for Mohammed Siraj

As Siraj basks in the glory of his status as the world’s no. 1 ranked ODI bowler, his journey continues. He is set to showcase his skills in the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia. With the ODI World Cup 2023 on the horizon, this ?series is of paramount importance as Siraj and the Indian team gear up to identify and work on their shortcomings ahead of the world event.

Also READ: Virat Kohli beats BTS star??s V and Jungkook to become the most searched Asian person on Google in 2023

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In a thrilling Asia Cup 2023 final showdown against Sri Lanka, Indian pace bowler Mohammed Siraj etched his name in the annals of cricket history with a remarkable performance. Siraj delivered a devastating spell that dismantled the Sri Lankan batting lineup and secured a resounding victory for India.

Siraj’s opening spell was nothing short of sensational. He took a total of six wickets while conceding just 21 runs in his seven-over spell, which included a maiden over. However, it was his initial burst that left Sri Lanka reeling. Siraj reduced Sri Lanka to a precarious 12 for the loss of five wickets in just four overs.

The highlight of Siraj’s performance came during the fourth over of the Lankan innings. With four wickets to his name in the over, he joined an exclusive club of bowlers to achieve this remarkable feat in One-Day Internationals (ODIs).

The over that created history:

• First ball: Pathum Nissanka attempted to play a length ball towards the square region but found Ravindra Jadeja at point, who took a routine catch.
• Second ball: Siraj bowled a lethal delivery at 143 clicks which was fraction short and outside off. But Sadeera Samarawickrama shouldered his arms to let it go.
• Third ball: Siraj bowled an in swinging delivery that struck Samarawickrama’s pads, resulting in a leg before wicket dismissal.
• Fourth ball: Going a bit fuller, Siraj induced Charith Asalanka to drive, but the batter chipped it straight to Ishan Kishan at covers.
• Fifth ball: Dhananjaya de Silva, the last hope for Sri Lanka in that over, managed to begin with a boundary.
• Sixth ball: However, Siraj came back strongly and dismissed Dhananjaya, caught behind by the wicketkeeper, to complete his four-wicket haul in a single over.

Also ?WATCH: Mohammed Siraj displays a heartwarming gesture towards the Colombo ground staff

Elite company

With this incredible achievement, Siraj became only the fifth bowler from full-member nations to claim four wickets in an over in ODIs. The exclusive club features Sri Lanka’s Chaminda Vaas and Lasith Malinga, Pakistan’s Mohammad Sami, and England’s Adil Rashid.

Bowlers with four wickets in an over in ODIs (full-member nations):

Chaminda Vaas against Bangladesh: Chaminda Vaas, the legendary Sri Lankan bowler, achieved the similar feat durin??g an  ODI against Bangladesh back in 2003 at Pietermaritzburg.

Mohammad Sami against New Zealand: Former Pakistan pace sensation Mohammad Sami bagged 4 wickets in?? an over when Pakistan took ?in New Zealand in 2003 at Lahore.

Lasith Malinga against South Africa: In the 2007 World Cup, Sri Lanka pace bowler Lasith Malinga destroyed South Africa with his splendid bowling. Malinga picked up 4 wickets in an ?over at Guyana.

Adil Rashid against West Indies: During England’s tour of West Indies in 2019, Adil Rashid impressed one and all when he took four wickets in an over at Grenada.

Mohammed Siraj against Sri Lanka: As explained above, Moham??m??ed Siraj scripted history in the Asia Cup final against the Lankans. Overall, in his seven-over spell, the right-armer bagged 6 wickets for 21 runs.

Also READ: Chief selector Ajit Agarkar picks Team India’s ‘Trump Card’ for the ODI World Cup 2023

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After sealing the 8th Asia Cup?? title, Team India has returned home from Sri Lanka. The Men in Blue registered a thumping ten-wicket win over S??ri Lanka in the final last Sunday.

They are now gearing up to face Australia in a three-match ODI series on their home ground. This series is important for India as they gear up for the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023, which wil?l be contested on Indian soil from October 5.

On Monday, the BCCI made an official announcement regarding the squad that will repre?sent India in the series against Au??stralia.

In a strategic move, captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, and the in-form spinner Kuldeep Yadav have been rested for the initial two games. KL Rahul has?? been entrusted with the leadership role for these games, after which Rohit will resume captaincy duties in the third and final ODI.

Rohit Sharma returns home in a luxurious Mercedes

After the team’s return from Sri Lanka, Rohit made his way home in a luxurious Mercedes, where he graciously took out time to click pictures with fans and the police officers.

ALSO READ: Meet Jessica Davies: Australian star Travis Head’s beautiful ??wife

Here is the video:

Aft?er winning Asia Cup 2023 GREATEST CAPTAIN ROHIT SHARMA arrives in Mumbai.

Clicked pictures with fans and Police Officers#RohitSharma pic.twitter.com/hfBfOeekdV

— Immy² (@BeingImRo45) September 18, 2023

A tournament to remember for Rohit

The Asia Cup journey for Rohit went beyond securing the title. The 36-year?-old cricket stalw?art amassed an impressive total of 194 runs in five innings, maintaining an exceptional average of 48.50 and notching up three well-deserved half-centuries.

The right-hander’s stellar form is a promising sign for his team as they gear up for the ICC Cricket World Cup, one of the most prestigious multi-nation cricket event. His leadership and outstanding performance will be one of the keys for India in the upcoming tournament.

Also READ: IND vs AUS – Sanju Samson breaks silence after his exclusion from India’s ODI squad against Australia

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After a triumphant performance in the Asia Cup 2023, where Team India clinched the title ?in a thrilling final against Sri Lanka, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) u??nveiled the Indian squad for the upcoming home series against Australia. The squad included several changes to the ODI lineup, with some key players given a rest for the first two matches.

Rest for key players

India decided to rest captain Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli for the initial two ODIs, making way for new faces in the lineup. While seasoned off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin made his return to the ODI squad, another notable absentee was ace spinner Kuldeep Yadav.

Kuldeep’s outstanding Asia Cup performance

Kuldeep had been a standout performer in the Asia Cup 2023, where he consistently delivered stellar performances with the ball. Throughout the tournament, he secured nine wickets in five games, boasting an impressive average of 11.44 and an economy rate of 3.61. His outstanding contributions earned him the pres??tigious Player of the Series award as India dominated the summit clash.

Rohit Sharma’s explanation

Team India skipper Rohit has now shed light on the decision to rest Kuldeep for the first two ODIs against Australia. The Mumbaikar cited India’s strategy of keeping their cards close to their chest, emphasizing the importance of not allowing Australia to become too familiar with Kuldeep’s bowling right before the ODI World Cup 2023.

Also READ: Ravichandran Ashwin return?s as BCCI announces India squad for Australia ODIs

“Kuldeep is a rhythm bowler, we all know that. But we thought of a lot of things and took this call. His bowling is going well… we had to give players a chance, especially those who played just one game at the Asia Cup and are in the World Cup squad,” explained Rohit as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

Rohit further elaborated on their rationale, saying the management has been closely monitoring Kuldeep’s performance and development over the past year and a half, recognizing his importance. To preserve his effectiveness and maintain an element of surprise, they’ve opted to keep him out of the first two ODIs.

“We have been looking at Kuldeep for the last one, one and a half years, this is why we don’t want to expose him a lot. He is coming back for the last match. There are a lot of reasons. This is the best decision for us, to have him sit out for two games and play the third. We also have two practice matches [before the World Cup opener], so for the bowling rhythm, he will be back in it,” added Rohit.

Also READ: India vs Australia 2023, ODI series – Date, Match Time, Venues, Squads, Broadcast & Live Streaming details

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After a spectacular triumph in the Asia Cup 2023, Team India are gearing up for the ODI World Cup 2023 with optimism running high. Under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, India showcased their dominance in the Asian tou??rnament.

In the final match, they cruised to victory against Sri Lanka with a resounding 10-wicket win, securing their eighth Asia Cup title. The hero of the final was pace bowler Mohammed Siraj, who wreaked havoc by taking an astounding 6-wicket haul for just 21 runs in 7 overs, tilting the match decisively in India’s favor.

Fans’ high hopes for ODI World Cup 2023

The remarkable performance in the Asia Cup has ignited hopes among fans that the Men in Blue can replicate their success in the upcoming ODI World Cup. With the tournament set to be hosted by India, excitement is at an all-time high. Indian players, including Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and others, have displayed outstanding performances during the Asia Cup, further fueling fans’ optimism.

Kuldeep Yadav named India’s ‘Trump Card’

However, the question of who will play a pivotal role for Team India in the World Cup has been addressed by BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar, who has identified star spinner Kuldeep Yadav as India’s ‘Trump Card’ for the tournament featuring multiple teams.

Also ?READ: Here is Virat Kohli’s emotional message for fans ahead of the ODI World Cup 2023

Agarkar, who enjoyed a close working relationship with Kuldeep during his tenure as the assistant coach of the Delhi Capitals (DC) in the Indian Premier League (IPL), believes that most opposing teams find it challenging to contend with Kuldeep’s skills.

“I have spent time with him in the IPL. He’s a guy with a special skill set. Every guy needs to be shown faith, and the Indian team management has done that, and the results are there. He’s a trump card (for us). Most teams are finding him a challenge. All of us are excited for what lies ahead,”? Agarkar explained during a press conference on Monday.

Notably, Kuldeep’s recent resurgence is noteworthy. Previously on the fringes of the Indian team, he solidified his position with a stellar season in the IPL with the Capitals, and he has not looked back since. As India prepare for the ODI World Cup 2023, Kuldeep’s exceptional spin skills are expected to play a pivotal role in the team’s quest for glory on home soil.

Also READ: Ravichandran Ashwin returns as BCCI announces India? squad for Australia ODIs

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In a cricketing world that thrives on thrilling matches and nail-biting encounters, the Asia Cup 2023 Final between India and Sri Lanka will be remembered for an entirely different reason. It was a day when India, under the exceptional bowling leadership of Mohammed Siraj, completely dismantled Sri Lanka’s batting order and secured a comfortable victory over the Island nation.

India’s victory in the Asia Cup marked their eighth title in the continental event, and it was the second time they clinched it under Rohit Sharma‘s captaincy. The Men in Blue showcased their mettle, both as a team and under Rohit’s astute leadership, leaving fans and pundits alike in awe.

Amidst the celebrations and accolades for Rohit’s leadership, former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir also didn’t miss the chance to laud the Mumbai-born cricketer. However, he also took a brutal dig at former India skipper Virat Kohli in the process.

Also READ: Quinton de K??ock reveals the r??eason behind his ODI retirement call after World Cup in India

Gautam Gambhir’s praise for Rohit Sharma and dig at Virat Kohli

During an interaction at Star Sports after the remarkable win of India, Gambhir commended Rohit’s captaincy and his ability to steer the team to victory. He even highlighted Rohit’s five IPL titles and emphasized that “many didn’t even win once.” The statement from the Delhi cricketer not only underscored Rohit’s consistency and success in the IPL but also subtly contrasted it with Virat Kohli’s title drought in the same tournament.

“There was never a doubt about Rohit the captain. He won 5 IPL titles. Many didn’t even win once. But his real test will come in the next 15 days. You have your best 15-18 players in the dressing room now. If they cannot deliver they there will be question marks,” said Gambhir.

The crucible of captaincy and hope for the future

Gambhir further delved into the challenges faced by cricket captains, particularly when leading the Indian cricket team on the world stage. He pointed out that captains often face scrutiny if they fail to deliver in major tournaments, such as the World Cup. Drawing parallels with Kohli and Rahul Dravid, Gambhir noted that both had their share of trials and tribulations during their tenures as India’s captains.

At the same time, Gambhir acknowledged the potential of Rohit’s leadership and expressed confidence that he could lead India to the final of the World Cup in 2023, underscoring the belief in the current team’s abilities.

“After every World Cup, if the captain is unable to deliver, then questions will be raised. Virat Kohli faced it. Rahul Dravid faced it in 2007. If India fails to deliver in 2023, then questions will be raised on Rohit’s captaincy. But this team has the ability to make the World Cup final,” highlighted Gambhir.

Also WATCH: Isha?n Kishan and Virat Kohli mimic each other in a hilarious banter after the Asia Cu??p 2023 Final

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