Former Pakistani spinner Danish Kaneria expressed skepticism about the PCB’s intentions, questioning what they would achieve by bringing the issue to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) after India decided against participating in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

This situation arose after the PCB announced that the ICC had relayed the BCCI’s message stating that India would not travel to Pakistan for the tournament scheduled for February-March next year. This event will mark Pakistan’s first ICC tournament hosting since the 1996 World Cup.

The decision has sparked widespread criticism in Pakistan, with officials and former cricketers condemning India’s refusal. The PCB, in consultation with the Pakistani government, has reportedly threatened to withdraw from the Champions Trophy if it follows a hybrid model, as requested by the BCCI.

Media reports indicate that the PCB remains adamant about hosting the entire tournament in Pakistan and is contemplating addressing the CAS regarding the issue.

Kaneria emphasized that going to CAS would yield no benefits, noting that India’s absence is primarily due to political and security concerns. He remarked, “The situation has long indicated that India will not travel to Pakistan for these reasons. While there is the option of a hybrid model, as seen in the Asia Cup, matters should be settled since Pakistan visited India for the ODI World Cup last year. If Pakistan approaches CAS, what will they gain? Security concerns remain high when it comes to the Indian team.”

He supported the BCCI’s suggestion for a hybrid model similar to that used in the 2023 Asia Cup, where India played its matches in Sri Lanka while Pakistan hosted the rest.

“From a broader perspective, India could play its matches in Dubai while Pakistan hosts the Champions Trophy. The situation seems grim, but Pakistan has nothing to lose, especially since they previously sent their team to India for the World Cup. The PCB is firm this time, with many fans eager to see players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and Ravindra Jadeja in Pakistan,” Kaneria added.

He concluded by expressing curiosity about how the PCB will navigate the situation regarding the Champions Trophy 2025. “It will be interesting to see how the PCB proceeds; will they take a proactive stance? Swift action with delegations from both boards meeting in person could lead to a favorable resolution,” he said.

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to feature eight teams, including hosts Pakistan, and will take place from February 19 to March 9 at three venues: Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi.