‘Keep in egos in check…’, Shahid Afridi calls for ‘Olympic spirit’ amid India’s Champions Trophy standoff

New Delhi: As the impasse over India’s participation in the 2025 Champions Trophy continues, Shahid Afridi took to social media to deliver a powerful message to cricket administrators regarding the upcoming mega event, which is scheduled to be held in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9.

Over the past week, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) informed the International Cricket Council (ICC) that the Indian cricket team will not travel to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy, following consultations with the government due to security concerns.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed that the ICC informed them of the BCCI’s decision. While there were expectations for the tournament to be held in a hybrid model, with India’s matches and the final taking place in Dubai, the PCB has stood firm on its stance, insisting on hosting the entire tournament in Pakistan. This has left the status of the event in significant uncertainty.

Amid the ongoing India-Pakistan tension, Shahid Afridi urged cricket teams to set aside their egos and embrace the Olympic spirit for the 2025 Champions Trophy. He called for unity and a focus on the spirit of the game, emphasizing that cricket should transcend political differences.

“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,” wrote Afridi on X, formerly known as Twitter.

India has not played cricket on Pakistani soil since 2008, when they participated in the Asia Cup. In 2023, the Asia Cup was held in a hybrid model, with India playing their matches in Sri Lanka due to security concerns.