Pakistan’s Foreign Office has firmly stated that there are no behind-the-scenes diplomatic discussions with India regarding the Champions Trophy, following India’s refusal to send its cricket team to Pakistan for the tournament scheduled for February-March 2025. The spokesperson of the Foreign Office, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, addressed queries at the weekly press briefing, emphasizing that sports events should remain separate from political matters
Source : ZEE
“There is no back channel with India to specifically discuss the Champions Trophy and bilateral cricket between Pakistan and India,” Baloch said. She added that further details regarding the tournament and team participation are available with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), which can share any additional information.
Source:- bbc news
Baloch reiterated Pakistan’s stance that sports should not be politicized. When asked about Pakistan’s plans for the Champions Trophy if India maintains its position, she indicated that the PCB is in contact with the International Cricket Council (ICC) to discuss arrangements, including the participation of different teams in the tournament
The BCCI has informed the ICC about its inability to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, and the ICC has sought a response from the PCB on hosting the tournament in a hybrid model. A hybrid model was followed during the Asia Cup last year, with India’s matches held in Sri Lanka while other matches were played in Pakistan.
The Foreign Office spokesperson concluded by stating, “We would refer you to the Pakistan Cricket Board for any comments or clarification with regards to this issue.”
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