Salman Butt believes that India should participate in the Champions Trophy hosted by Pakistan.© BCCI
Since Pakistan was chosen to host the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025, there has been much discussion regarding India’s involvement in the tournament. Despite strained cricketing relations between India and Pakistan due to political differences, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt insists that India should honor its commitment to participate in the tournament held in Pakistan, just like the other teams.
Butt pointed out that India’s kabaddi and tennis teams have recently competed in tournaments held in Pakistan, indicating that the Indian government should not be selective in their approach.
“Pakistan has the right to host the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, and it should be held in Pakistan. Similar to how all other teams participate, India should also visit Pakistan. Pakistan traveled to India for the World Cup, so India should reciprocate. Despite the strained relations between the two countries, India’s kabaddi and tennis teams have visited Pakistan. You can’t cherry-pick when it comes to diplomatic engagements,” Butt expressed in a video on his YouTube channel.
Additionally, Butt humorously mentioned that Pakistani cricket fans eagerly anticipate watching players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma play in Pakistan, as these Indian stars have a significant following in the country.
“Fans in Pakistan are eager to see Indian players in action here. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have a large fanbase in Pakistan, with fans even bringing their posters to PSL matches despite their non-involvement in the league. People want to witness these stars playing in front of them. Similarly, I’m sure there are fans in India who appreciate Pakistani players as well,” he added.
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