'Politics Aur Cricket Alag Honi Chahiye' Wasim Akram's Heartfelt Appeal to Keep Champion Trophy 2025 in Pakistan - WATCH

The legendary fast-bowler, Wasim Akram remains hopeful that their neighbours, India do make the trip for the 2025 Champions trophy that is set to take place in Pakistan.

Speaking in an interview with IANS (Indo-Asian News Service), Akram wants to see their rivals make the trip and believes that the entire nation will ensure that all the teams that do make the trip feel welcome.

“I hope that India does come to Pakistan. The whole country is looking forward to receiving all the teams. We will grandly welcome them,” Akram commented.

The Indian team have not been able to make the trip to Pakistan owing to the political tensions between the two countries. The BCCI were clear that they would only consider making the trip if the Indian government is willing to provide the necessary approvals.

But reports have suggested that the Indian government has once again rejected India’s travel to Pakistan and it remains to be seen how it would affect the tournament and their participation as well.

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Akram believes that the facilities within the country are good with the PCB Chairman already beginning work on new stadiums as well across the country.

He highlighted, “The facilities are great, and new stadiums are being built. The chairman Mohsin Naqvi has started new stadiums in Lahore, Islamabad and Karachi. So I think it will be a great tournament”.

The former Pakistan international feels that for the nation’s cricketing journey to move forward, the Champions Trophy 2025 will play a massive role.

During the 2023 Asia Cup, Pakistan who were the designated hosts, were forced to switch to a hybrid model where Sri Lanka played hosts to all of India’s games and the final as well.

“Pakistan needs that tournament for the betterment of cricket and world cricket and I hope that all the teams do the tour as I feel that cricket and politics should be separate,” he added.

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The PCB could be forced to make a similar move once again if India’s participation is a no-go or the ICC could even consider removing India’s spot to Sri Lanka as per the rankings.

Akram concluded by saying, “Overall everything is ready, Pakistan, the whole country is looking forward to this event. The team, the dignitaries, the press I hope all of you are there to see it”.