Shoaib Akhtar’s statement came hours after Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) gave in to BCCI and ICC’s demand on Champions Trophy
Former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Akhtar made a staggering claim saying that the hybrid model for the Champions Trophy was already decided, just hours after Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) gave in to BCCI and ICC’s demand. Under the model, all of India’s matches will be reportedly played in the UAE, while the remainder of the games will be hosted in Pakistan.
The proposal for a hybrid model was put forward after BCCI formally told the ICC that the Indian team did not get clearance from the government to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. The apex body too was keen to push forward the model in the wake of the Islamabad unrest. However, PCB was adamant about hosting the entire tournament in Pakistan, but eventually gave it after they were reportedly left on the verge of losing hosting rights.
Speaking to a Pakistan media channel, Akhtar acknowledged PCB’s stance as he delivered an unbiased verdict on the hybrid model.
“You are getting paid for hosting rights and revenue, and that’s fine—we all understand it. Pakistan’s stance is also reasonable. They should have maintained a strong position—why not? Once we are able to host the Champions Trophy in our country and they are unwilling to come, they should share the revenue with us at a higher rate. That’s a good call,” Akhtar said.