Younis Khan Calls for Kohli to Play in Pakistan Amid Champions Trophy Travel Uncertainty

Pakistan’s right to host the ICC Champions Trophy has stirred debate over whether India will participate due to political tensions. Since 2013, bilateral cricket between India and Pakistan has been suspended, and it’s uncertain if the BCCI will get government approval for the team to travel to Pakistan. However, Pakistan’s recent visit to India for the 2023 ODI World Cup has revived discussions on the possibility.

The current plan places all of India’s matches, including the one against Pakistan, at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. There are also rumors that the BCCI might propose a hybrid model, similar to the Asia Cup, with some matches held in Sri Lanka.

Former Pakistan captain Younis Khan has urged India to allow Virat Kohli to play in Pakistan, stating it would be a notable achievement in Kohli’s career. “Virat Kohli should come to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy. It is our wish too. He should come and perform in Pakistan. I think the only thing left in Virat’s career is to tour Pakistan and perform,” Younis Khan told the media.

India last played a bilateral series in Pakistan in 2006, two years before Kohli’s international debut. Although Kohli played against Pakistan in a limited-overs series in India in 2012, he has yet to play a Test match against Pakistan.

A PCB source revealed that the PCB has submitted the draft schedule, format, and budget for the Champions Trophy to the ICC, leaving it to the ICC to persuade the BCCI. “The PCB has done its part as hosts. It’s now up to the ICC to finalize the schedule. We’ve proposed hosting all of India’s games in Lahore, including a potential semi-final and final,” the source said.