If the government of Pakistan also says like India that we won’t play, then the ICC will be of no use: Rashid Latif

“We can say that India does not want to play bilateral matches, but you can’t deny the ICC events as you already have signed it. India has to make solid ground. If India doesn’t come this time, Pakistan will take a big step by not participating in the tournament,” he would say.

Earlier this publication reported that BCCI, in a recent communication to the Pakistan Cricket Board, has cited security concerns behind its decision and expressed a desire to play that India play all their games in Dubai.

“This has been our stance and there is no reason to change that. We have written to them and asked them to shift our games to Dubai,” a source told The Indian Express.

Sources said the BCCI has reiterated its stand over Pakistan “in consultation with the government”. Last year before the Asia Cup, India, despite pressure from hosts Pakistan, was able to shift its matches to Sri Lanka.

“If it is a bilateral series or Asia Cup, then the teams are asked, whether India wants to play or not. This is an ICC event. The cycle has been signed from 2024-2031. All the broadcasters and sponsors have signed about the teams that will participate in the Champions Trophy or the World Cup,” Latif said.

The top eight teams of the world are to take part in the February 19 to March 9 50-over ICC event that has Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi as host cities.