"Countries Once Divided...": Afridi's Big Appeal Amid Champions Trophy Row

Former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi expressed hope that each of eight teams will be in Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy next year. Taking to X, Shahid said that cricket is at a "crucial crossroads", facing one of its "greatest challenges". "Cricket is at a crucial crossroads, facing perhaps one of its greatest challenges since the late 1970s. Now is the time to put differences aside and let the game unite us. If countries once divided by history can come together in the Olympic spirit, why can't we do the same for cricket - and for the Champions Trophy? As stewards of this game, we owe it to cricket to keep egos in check and focus on its growth and spirit. I hope to see every team in Pakistan for CT25, to experience our warmth and hospitality, and to leave with unforgettable memories that transcend the field," Afridi said in a post on X.

Cricket is at a crucial crossroads, facing perhaps one of its greatest challenges since the late 1970s. Now is the time to put differences aside and let the game unite us. If countries once divided by history can come together in the Olympic spirit, why can't we do the same for... — Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) November 13, 2024

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has written to the International Cricket Council (ICC) seeking reasons behind India's refusal to travel to Pakistan to play the ICC Champions Trophy next year, Geo News reported on Tuesday.

India conveyed its stance of not travelling to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy, citing security concerns.

ICC had recently conveyed to the PCB in writing that India won't travel to Pakistan to participate in Champions Trophy which will be held in early 2025.

PCB consulted with the Pakistan government on the issue and is looking to present its stance.

"If India's participation contributes to ICC's revenue, the PCB's role is equally crucial, and without Pakistan-India matches, the ICC revenues would suffer significantly," sources told Geo News.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has requested the ICC to conduct the match of the Indian Cricket Team on a hybrid model.

India and Pakistan played their last bilateral series in 2012-13 in India, a white-ball series and now mostly play in ICC tournaments and Asia Cup.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)