Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson has voiced his deep disappointment over India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan for the highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
The eight-team tournament was originally set to be hosted exclusively by Pakistan. However, the Indian government decided not to send its team to the neighbouring country due to ongoing political issues between the two nations.
Consequently, the International Cricket Council (ICC) adopted a hybrid model for the Champions Trophy, with Team India playing all their matches in Dubai.
Watson expressed that it was “unfortunate” for the fans in Pakistan that they would not be able to witness India playing live on their home soil.
“It’s unfortunate things have turned out this way, but everyone loves watching India-Pakistan games,” he said during the ICC Champions Trophy Tour in Sydney.
The former all-rounder shared his experience of playing in Pakistan, stating that it was ‘incredible.’
“I got a small opportunity to play in the PSL in 2019, the first time after playing there in 2005. It was one of the highlights of my career,” he added.
“To go to Pakistan after a long time and see the love and joy they have for cricket was incredible. They were starved of world-class live cricket.”
Shane Watson acknowledged the importance of hosting such a prestigious event, recognizing how it resonates with the passionate cricket fans in Pakistan.
“It’s going to be huge for Pakistan cricket fans to watch world-class players in their country,” he said.
“This tournament will light up Pakistan. It’s going to be a special event for the country and its cricket fans.”
It’s worth noting that the ninth edition of the ICC Champions Trophy will kick off on 19 February with host and defending champions Pakistan taking on New Zealand in the curtain-raiser in Karachi.
Meanwhile, the season finale is scheduled on 9 March in Lahore, unless India qualify, in which case it will be played in Dubai.
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