Former Pakistan bowler Shoaib Akhar created quite a stir with his latest remarks as the legendary cricketer blamed the BJP Government of India behind India’s decision not to travel to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

He also added that it was “not in the hands of the BCCI” to influence the decision as “it is up to the BJP government to decide”.

“This is actually up to the governments. This has nothing to do with the BCCI. This is up to the BJP government. They will decide. There will be back channel talks. Even in war days there are back channel talks. We should not do it. We have to lose hope. We have to look forward to a solution. ICC sponsorship is 95 per cent -We know for a fact that 98 of them came from India,” Shoaib Akhtar said in an interview.

“If Pakistan cannot persuade India to come to Pakistan, two things will happen: Pakistan will lose about $100 million of the sponsorship that would have gone to the ICC and the host country will gain. Secondly, it would be better if India comes and plays in Pakistan but that is It really depends on the government, it has nothing to do with the BCCI,” said the legendary pacer.

“Virat Kohli is trying to play for Pakistan for the first time. The whole of Pakistan wants to see Virat play for Pakistan. Imagine him scoring a century in Pakistan. He will be fine; he can’t score a century here and leaves early. It’s perfect for him.” there will be a circle, Pakistan has a tag that it cannot host major tournaments like the World Cup or the Champions Trophy,” the former Pakistan cricketer added.

“If this (Champions Cup) happens, it will be a stepping stone for bigger events. I don’t think it will happen. Keep your chances open. Wait until the last moment. As of now, I think India has come to Pakistan,” he added.

Watch the videos below:

I don’t think we are ready #CT25 . Shoaib Akhtar says #shoaibakhter #ptvsportsofficial#PCB pic.twitter.com/x69ktmckDJ

— iffi Raza (@Rizzvi73) 18 November 2024

100 million dollars of damage #championstrophy2025 Khabardar sings Shoaib Akhtar #ptvsportsofficial pic.twitter.com/AO0X08Zzew

— iffi Raza (@Rizzvi73) 18 November 2024