PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi announced on Friday that Pakistan’s women cricket team will not travel to India for the ICC Women’s World Cup. He cited an existing agreement between the cricket boards as the reason. Naqvi stated, “The Pakistan women’s team will not go to India as per the agreement.” He emphasized that India, as the host, would decide match locations.
Neutral Venue Proposed as Alternative
Naqvi reiterated Pakistan’s willingness to compete at any neutral venue except India. This stance follows ongoing tensions in bilateral cricket relations. India had previously refused to tour Pakistan for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, opting for neutral venues. The PCB chief’s remarks highlight the continued deadlock between the two cricketing nations over hosting arrangements.
Hybrid Model Adopted for ICC Events
After prolonged negotiations, both boards agreed on a hybrid model for ICC tournaments. ESPNcricinfo reported that this model allows India to play at neutral venues in Pakistan-hosted events and vice versa. The arrangement covers the 2025 Champions Trophy, 2025 Women’s World Cup, and 2026 T20 World Cup. Neutral venues must be proposed by the host and approved by the ICC.
India’s Previous Neutral Venue Usage
During the 2023 Asia Cup, India played all matches in Dubai, while Pakistan hosted remaining fixtures. This precedent reinforced the hybrid model’s feasibility. Naqvi’s latest statement indicates Pakistan’s adherence to similar terms for future tournaments. The approach aims to balance competitive fairness with political sensitivities between the two nations.
Praise for Women Cricket Team Performance
Naqvi commended the women’s team for their unity and recent performances. “When a team plays together, results like this follow,” he said. He promised rewards for the players, calling it their right. The chairman also highlighted improvements after minor squad changes and expressed optimism for similar progress in Under-19 and Shaheens teams.
Interim Coaching Decisions Under Review
Regarding the men’s team, Naqvi confirmed interim coaching appointments, including Aqib Javed’s temporary role. “It was a temporary decision. We’ll review this matter next week,” he said. The PCB chief avoided commenting on reports of Mohammad Rizwan’s dissatisfaction, focusing instead on upcoming structural decisions.
Meeting with Women’s Squad
Earlier, Naqvi met the women’s team at Gaddafi Stadium, congratulating them on their recent achievements. The interaction underscored PCB’s commitment to supporting women’s cricket despite geopolitical challenges. The chairman’s statements reflect a broader strategy to prioritize player welfare and competitive opportunities while navigating complex international relations.
Future of Pakistan-India Cricket Ties
The PCB’s firm stance on neutral venues underscores the fragile state of Pakistan-India cricket relations. While the hybrid model offers a temporary solution, long-term resolutions remain uncertain. Naqvi’s remarks highlight Pakistan’s readiness to compete globally, albeit with conditions ensuring political and logistical neutrality. The cricketing world awaits further developments as both boards navigate this delicate balance.
