The Champions Trophy 2024, scheduled to be held in Pakistan next year, has been surrounded by a major controversy. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has firmly stated that it will not send its team to Pakistan for ICC tournaments, advocating for the event to be hosted elsewhere at a 'neutral venue'.
Former Pakistan leg-spinner Danish Kaneria has supported BCCI's stance for a 'hybrid model', agreeing that India should not travel to Pakistan for the tournament.
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The political relations between India and Pakistan are currently strained, and India has expressed concerns about the safety of its players in Pakistan.
"Look at the situation in Pakistan I have to say that the Indian team should not go to Pakistan, and Pakistan should think about it," Kaneria said in a chat with Sports Tak. "The ICC will make their decision and most likely Champions Trophy will be played in a hybrid model in Dubai. This (back and forth) will go on for some time, it will be hyped up in the media. It’s a reality and it will definitely be a hybrid model. And BCCI will do whatever they been advised to."
Kaneria emphasized that the safety of the players is top priority.
"The safety of the players is the first priority. Respect is the second priority. I think BCCI is doing a great job. Whatever their decision is, other countries will also have to accept that. I think it will be a hybrid model," said Kaneria.
India last toured Pakistan for the Asia Cup in 2008, and the two nations have not played a bilateral series since 2013 due to ongoing political tensions and safety concerns.
With Jay Shah now serving as the new ICC Chairman, it will be important to observe how developments unfold regarding the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.