Former Pakistan pacer praises decision, slams ICC delays, emphasizes the magic of India-Pakistan rivalry
New Delhi, December 19: Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has hailed the ICC’s decision to adopt a hybrid model for the Champions Trophy 2025, emphasizing the enduring appeal of the India-Pakistan cricket rivalry. “Even if this contest happens on the moon, fans will find a way,” Amir quipped in an exclusive interview with Cricket Predicta.
The hybrid model allows Pakistan to host the event while India-Pakistan matches will take place at neutral venues. Amir also expressed disappointment with the ICC’s delay in resolving the matter, calling it “laziness” on the governing body’s part.
The Magic of India-Pakistan Matches
Amir was ecstatic about the upcoming face-off between the two arch-rivals.
“The venue doesn’t matter; it’s the match itself that holds the magic. I’m thrilled, and I know fans around the world feel the same way,” he said.
Criticism for ICC’s Delayed Action
While Amir welcomed the announcement, he criticized the ICC’s delayed handling of the situation.
“The ICC has tournaments planned until 2031, so why did work on the 2025 Champions Trophy only begin recently? Matches between India and Pakistan are a global event, and such delays are unacceptable,” he said.
Neutral Venues and Future Matches
The hybrid model ensures that all India-Pakistan matches in ICC tournaments between 2024 and 2027, including the Champions Trophy 2025 and the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, will be held at neutral venues.
Additionally, Pakistan has secured hosting rights for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in 2028, which will also follow the hybrid model.
Champions Trophy 2025
The tournament, set for February and March 2025, will feature eight teams: Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, South Africa, and hosts Pakistan. Pakistan will aim to defend their 2017 title, which they clinched by defeating India in a memorable final.
India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral series since 2012-13, with their encounters limited to ICC events and Asia Cups due to strained political relations.
With the Champions Trophy’s schedule set to be announced soon, fans are gearing up for another thrilling chapter in cricket’s greatest rivalry.
