New Delhi: As Pakistan fans adore Indian cricketers, they would receive a whole hearted welcome if they decide to travel to their neighbouring country for the Champion Trophy, says Pakistan’s new white-ball captain Mohammad Rizwan.
Pakistan are set to host the Champions Trophy in February-March next year but India’s travel plans remain unclear as the BCCI have said they await government approval.
On earlier occasions, India have refused to play in Pakistan citing security concerns and the government are yet to declare its stance regarding it this time.
Pakistan hope India awill agree and have kept all their matches in Lahore to allay security fears but the International Cricket Council have also explored back-up plans in case they refuse.
The ICC have though of conducting the tournament on a hybrid model or move the tournament in its entirety from Pakistan.
Rizwan hopes such a situation won’t arise and India would eventually make the trip, which would make it memorable beyond cricketing reasons as they have last visited for the 2008 Asia Cup, getting beaten by Sri Lanka in the final.
“Fans here love Indian cricketers, and they would be thrilled to see the Indian team play in Pakistan. If they come, we will give them a warm welcome,” Rizwan said a press conference in which he was unveiled as the new captain.
Since 2008, India and Pakistan have met in ICC tournaments, Pakistan travelled to India fir the 2023 ODI World Cup, having made the trip in 2012 for an ODI series.
‘Fakhar decision beyond my control’
Rizwan also commented on Fakhar Zaman’s axing from Pakistan’s central contract list, weeks after blasting Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for their treatment of Babar Azam.
“There’s no question about Fakhar’s impact, he is an influential player who can change the game single-handedly on any conditions,” he said.
“While some decisions are beyond my control, we have discussed his potential return and hope the matter will soon be resolved.”
