Basit Ali, the former Pakistani cricketer, has raised serious concerns regarding the security measures in place as Pakistan prepares to host the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025. Ali’s comments come in light of the country’s packed cricket schedule, which includes Test series against Bangladesh, England, and the West Indies during the 2024-25 season. He emphasizes that any security lapses could jeopardize Pakistan’s ability to host this prestigious tournament.
A Call for Enhanced Security Measures
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ali highlighted the urgency of ensuring heightened security for the upcoming tours. “Since the Champions Trophy is in Pakistan, and teams like England and West Indies are scheduled to tour after Bangladesh, we must pay attention to security,” he stated. He warned that any incident during these tours could result in the Champions Trophy not being played in Pakistan. “God forbid, the Champions Trophy won’t be played here if there is any incident in these tours,” he cautioned.
Ali’s concerns are rooted in the ongoing security challenges faced by the nation, particularly in regions like Balochistan and Peshawar, where incidents of violence have occurred. “Our soldiers are getting martyred in Balochistan and Peshawar. Only the government can answer why it has been happening, but it’s wrong,” he added, reflecting a broader anxiety about safety in the region.
The Importance of International Confidence
The former cricketer stressed that international teams must receive the highest level of security, comparable to that afforded to the country’s president and prime minister. “We must ensure that there isn’t even a small security breach. The foreign teams should get the same security as our Prime Minister and President,” Ali asserted. His remarks underscore the need for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the government to work closely to bolster security protocols ahead of the significant cricketing events.
Pakistan’s cricketing landscape has seen its share of challenges, particularly regarding international teams’ willingness to tour the country. Past incidents, such as New Zealand’s abrupt cancellation of their tour in 2021 and England’s subsequent withdrawal, have left lingering doubts about security in Pakistan. As the nation gears up for its home season starting August 21 with a two-match Test series against Bangladesh, the PCB is under pressure to ensure a safe environment for players and officials.
The PCB recently announced the dates and schedule for the entire home season, which includes the Champions Trophy spectacle. Pakistan previously lifted the Champions Trophy in 2017, stunning India in the final, and the nation is eager to reclaim its status as a host for international cricket.
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