Former Pakistani fast bowler Tanvir Ahmed has issued a bold challenge to the Indian cricket team in reaction to former spinner Harbhajan Singh’s remark about “safety concerns” in Pakistan. Tanvir has urged India and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to visit Pakistan, pointing out that only the Pakistani team consistently tours India without hesitation. This dispute arises from reports indicating that the BCCI is reluctant to tour Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy, despite Pakistan having participated in the 2023 ODI World Cup in India.
Tanvir stated, “We are lions. We have come to your den and played you,” and further challenged, “If you have the courage, come here and play.”
He reassured, “We will provide you with security, we’ll provide everything. Just come here once!”
India last played cricket matches in Pakistan in 2006. After the 2008 Mumbai attacks, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) did not let the Indian team go to Pakistan. Now, Pakistan is set to hold the 2025 Champions Trophy, and there are reports that the BCCI wants a different location for their matches.
This situation is similar to the 2023 Asian Cup, which Pakistan also hosted. Back then, the BCCI asked for India’s games to be held in Sri Lanka due to safety concerns, and they were able to make that happen.
“Only players from Pakistan are allowed to come and play. They traveled to India and played. That’s what we call bravery,” Tanvir commented.
Tanvir’s strong response came after Harbhajan Singh made some remarks a few days earlier.
“I don’t believe it’s safe to go there (Pakistan). There are incidents almost every day. The BCCI’s position is totally right, because the players’ safety is the top priority,” Harbhajan had shared with IANS.
The discussion and disagreement about hosting the 2025 Champions Trophy doesn’t seem to be ending soon. The tournament is planned to take place from February 19, 2025 to March 9, 2025.
