"Wahin Unhe Maarke Aao": Shoaib Akhtar's Controversial Remark on Champions Trophy Debate
December 2, 2024: Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has shared his candid views on the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025 hosting controversy. While Akhtar supported the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) demand for a higher revenue share under the hybrid hosting model, he criticised their stance on boycotting ICC events in India, urging the team to rise to the challenge instead.
The PCB, who hold hosting rights for the 2025 Champions Trophy, initially pushed for the entire tournament to be played in Pakistan. However, recent ICC negotiations have resulted in a hybrid model, reportedly involving some matches being hosted in Pakistan and others in neutral venues like Dubai. The PCB has also reportedly demanded that future ICC events held in India follow a hybrid model as well.
Akhtar backed the PCB’s demand for higher revenue, saying, “You are getting paid for hosting rights and revenue, and that’s fine. Pakistan’s stance is reasonable. Once we successfully host the Champions Trophy in our country, and if other teams are unwilling to come, they should share the revenue with us at a higher rate.”
While agreeing with the PCB on revenue negotiations, Akhtar took a different stance on boycotting ICC events in India. He emphasized that Pakistan should focus on building a formidable team and defeating India on their home soil.
“In terms of playing in India in the future, we should extend a hand of friendship and go there. My belief has always been, go to India and defeat them there. ‘India mein khelo aur wahi unhe maarke aao’ (play in India and beat them on their home ground),” Akhtar said during an interview on a Pakistani channel.
As per the proposed arrangements, India’s matches in the Champions Trophy would be played in Dubai. If India qualifies for the semi-finals or final, those matches will also be held in Dubai. However, if India does not progress, all knockouts will take place in Pakistan.
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