Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has suggested that the Champions Trophy should adopt a hybrid model, recommending that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) should refrain from sending the Indian team to Pakistan for the tournament scheduled for next year. Pakistan is set to host the Champions Trophy 2025, but the BCCI has not yet decided whether to send the Indian team.
In an exclusive conversation with Sports Tak, Kaneria proposed that Dubai would be an ideal venue for the tournament. He expressed concerns over the current situation in Pakistan and suggested that the ICC might opt for a hybrid model, with matches potentially being held in Dubai due to its ability to attract media attention and sponsorships.
Kaneria pointed out that Pakistan benefited from hosting India during the Asia Cup 2023, which was eventually played in a hybrid model, with India playing all its matches in Sri Lanka. He praised the BCCI for prioritizing player security and indicated that the board would likely accept a hybrid model if necessary.
Kaneria criticized the PCB for focusing solely on the financial benefits of hosting the tournament, neglecting the security concerns that might arise. He emphasized that while financial gains and media exposure are important, the safety of players is paramount.
“The situation in Pakistan is concerning, and while the financial benefits are significant, security issues cannot be overlooked. India, on the other hand, provides a more stable environment for international cricket,” Kaneria noted.
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Currently, Pakistan, which has struggled since the T20 World Cup 2022, is hosting Bangladesh for a two-Test series. Pakistan has already lost the first Test, with the second match scheduled to take place on August 30 at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
