Former Pakistan bowler Shoaib Akhar has created a huge buzz with his latest remarks, as the legendary cricketer has blamed the BJP Government of India behind India's decision to not travel to Pakistan for ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
He also added that it is 'not in the hands of BCCI' to influence the decision, as it is 'up to the BJP government to decide'.
"It's really up to the governments. It's nothing to do with the BCCI. It is up to the BJP government. They will decide. There will be back channel talks. Even in days of war, there are back channel talks. We should not lose hope. We have to look forward to a solution. We know a fact that 95-98 per cent of sponsorship for ICC comes from India," said Shoaib Akhtar in an interview.
"If Pakistan fails to convince India to come to Pakistan, then two things will happen: Pakistan will lose about 100 million dollars of the sponsorship that will go to ICC and the host country will earn. Second, it would be better if India comes and plays in Pakistan. But it's really, really up to the government. It has nothing to do with BCCI," said the legendary pacer.
"Virat Kohli is trying to play in Pakistan for the first time. Entire Pakistan wants to see Virat play in Pakistan. Imagine him scoring a century in Pakistan. It will be good; he doesn't score a century here and gets out early. It will be a full circle for him. Pakistan has got a tag that it cannot host big tournaments like the World Cup or Champions Trophy," added the former Pakistan cricketer.
"If this (Champions Trophy) happens, it will be a stepping stone for bigger events. I don't think this will happen. Keeping the fingers crossed. Wait till the last moment. I think currently, as of now, India is coming to Pakistan," he added.
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