“We’ll Provide Security, Come”: Former Pakistan Pacer Challenges BCCI and Team India

Former Pakistan fast bowler Tanvir Ahmed has issued a bold challenge to Team India in response to former spinner Harbhajan Singh’s comments about safety concerns in Pakistan. Tanvir has called on India and the BCCI to tour Pakistan, emphasizing that it is the Pakistan cricket team that continually tours India without refusal. The challenge comes in the wake of reports suggesting that the BCCI does not want to tour Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy, despite Pakistan touring India for the 2023 ODI World Cup.

“We are lions. We have come to your den and played you,” said Tanvir. “If you have the courage, come here and play.”

Tanvir assured, “We will give you security, we’ll give you everything. Come for once!”

India last toured Pakistan in 2006, and the BCCI has refused tours since the 2008 Mumbai attacks. With Pakistan set to host the 2025 Champions Trophy, the BCCI has reportedly requested a different venue for their matches. This situation mirrors the 2023 Asia Cup, where India’s games were played in Sri Lanka instead of Pakistan due to security concerns.

“Only Pakistan players can come and play. They went to India and played. That’s what you call bravery,” added Tanvir.

His comments were in response to Harbhajan Singh’s earlier statement: “I don’t think it is safe to go there (Pakistan). Incidents occur there almost every day. The BCCI’s stance is completely correct, because the players’ security comes first,” Harbhajan had told IANS.

The debate over the 2025 Champions Trophy hosting continues, with the tournament scheduled from February 19, 2025, to March 9, 2025.