Chances of India Traveling to Pakistan for ICC Champions Trophy Slim: Former PCB Chief

Karachi, July 20, 2024 — Khalid Mahmood, the former chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), has cast doubt on the likelihood of India participating in the ICC Champions Trophy, scheduled to take place in Pakistan early next year. Mahmood, a retired senior bureaucrat, expressed skepticism about India’s willingness to travel to Pakistan for the tournament.

In his statement, Mahmood highlighted the significant challenges and slim chances of India agreeing to the visit. He noted that if India opts out, it could have substantial financial repercussions for both the PCB and the International Cricket Council (ICC), as the absence of one of cricket’s most prominent teams could undermine the profitability and success of the event.

Despite these concerns, Mahmood emphasized that if the Indian team does not travel, it would represent a missed opportunity for the PCB, impacting the revenue and global visibility of the tournament. The ICC is yet to respond to the concerns raised regarding the participation of teams in the upcoming Champions Trophy.

The Champions Trophy, originally scheduled to be hosted by Pakistan, is highly anticipated, with teams from around the world expected to compete. The final decision on India’s participation is awaited, as negotiations and discussions continue between the relevant cricketing boards and governing bodies.