Huge uncertainty prevails over the venue for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as India and Pakistan remain adamant in their stances. Pakistan have categorically stated that they want to host the entire tournament in Pakistan, while India have conveyed their decision to the ICC that India will not travel to Pakistan to play Champions Trophy due to security concerns.

India have proposed ‘hybrid model’ as they want India’s matches, as well as final, to be played in Dubai. But, Pakistan remain firm in their stance to host the tournament in Pakistan in its entirety. Amid this pandemonium, Pakistan’s former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has shared his views on the matter.

“There will be back channel talks. Even in days of war there is back channel talks. I think, we should not lose hope. We have to look forward to a solution. We know for a fact that 95-96 per cent of sponsorship for ICC comes from India,” Shoaib Akhtar said in an interview.

"If Pakistan fails to convince India to come to Pakistan, then two things will happen: Pakistan will lose about 100 million dollars of the sponsorship that will go to ICC and the host country will earn. Second, it would be better if India comes and plays in Pakistan. But it's really, really up to the government. It has got nothing to do with BCCI," Akhtar added further. 

“Virat Kohli is trying to play in Pakistan for the first time. Pakistan wants to see Virat play in Pakistan. Imagine him scoring a century in Pakistan. It will be a full circle for him. Pakistan has got a tag that it cannot host big tournaments like World Cup. If this (Champions Trophy) happens it will be a stepping stone for bigger events. I don’t think this will happen. Keeping the fingers crossed. Wait till the last moment. I think currently, as of now, India is coming to Pakistan,” Akhtar said.