2024-09-01 06:18:26
New Delhi: Former cricketer Danish Kaneria says that India should not play in the Champions Trophy 2025 to be held in Pakistan. India did not go to Pakistan for the 2023 Asia Cup due to political tension between India and Pakistan. The Asia Cup was held in Pakistan and Sri Lanka in a hybrid model. A similar situation is developing regarding the Champions Trophy. It will start in February next year.
What did Danish Kaneria say?
Danish Kaneria said on ‘Sports Tak’, ‘Looking at the situation in Pakistan, I believe that the Indian team should not go to Pakistan. Pakistan should think about it. The ICC will take its decision and the Champions Trophy is likely to be played in a hybrid model in Dubai. The safety of the players is the first priority. Respect is the second priority. I think the BCCI is doing a great job. Whatever their decision, the rest of the countries will have to accept it. I think it will be a hybrid model.’
The Pakistan Cricket Board is improving stadiums and improving infrastructure to host the Champions Trophy matches. Kaneria also stressed the need to do so. He said, ‘PCB is ready, but they have to improve the infrastructure first. Security is the biggest concern.
Pakistan is preparing
The PCB has approved the upgrade of Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, Karachi’s National Stadium and Rawalpindi International Cricket Stadium. These three stadiums have been selected to host the Champions Trophy 2025 from February 19 to March 9. According to reports, Rs 12.80 billion has been allocated for the upgrade. Recently, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi visited the London office of BDP Pattern. Naqvi met Chairman Chris Harding and other senior officials and approved the renovation of the stadiums after talks. The UK-based organization has built around 200 international stadiums around the world.