Pakistan Cricketer Hasan Ali’s Strong Stance on India’s 2025 Champions Trophy Participation

India’s participation in the 2025 Champions Trophy, to be hosted solely by Pakistan, remains uncertain. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has suggested a hybrid model, proposing that India play its matches in the UAE or Sri Lanka. However, no agreement has been reached.

Hasan Ali’s Firm Position

Pakistani cricketer Hasan Ali has asserted that Pakistan is ready to host the Champions Trophy without India if necessary. Speaking to Samaa TV, Ali emphasized that Indian players are keen to play in Pakistan but must consider their country’s policies and board decisions.

“If we (Pakistan) are going to India to play, then they should come to Pakistan as well,” Ali stated. “Many Indian players have expressed their desire to play in Pakistan. However, they have to adhere to their policies.”

PCB’s Stance

Ali echoed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman’s stance, stating that the Champions Trophy, if hosted by Pakistan, will take place entirely in Pakistan. “If India does not want to come, we will play without them,” Ali said. “Cricket does not end if India doesn’t participate.”

Historical Context and Precedents

This issue is not new. In 2023, India played their matches in Sri Lanka despite Pakistan being the host nation. Later that year, Pakistan traveled to India for the Cricket World Cup. The last time India toured Pakistan was during the 2008 Asia Cup, which was also the last ICC tournament hosted by Pakistan.

In the 2017 Champions Trophy final, Pakistan defeated India, with Hasan Ali being named the ‘Player of the Tournament’. This historical rivalry and the current situation highlight the ongoing complexities in cricketing relations between the two nations.