The International Cricket Council (ICC) has embarked on a trophy tour of Pakistan, despite the uncertainty surrounding the hosting of the Champions Trophy in the country. The trophy arrived in Islamabad on Thursday and will embark on a tour of major Pakistani cities, including Skardu, Lahore, and Karachi.
The tour is intended to generate excitement for the tournament, which is scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9 next year. However, the ICC is yet to announce the final schedule or comment on India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan for the event.
The trophy tour has been met with mixed reactions. Some cricket fans have welcomed the opportunity to see the trophy up close, while others have questioned the purpose of the tour given the uncertainty surrounding the tournament.
Former Test captain Moin Khan expressed his skepticism, saying, “What is the purpose of this trophy tour when no one really knows at which venues the tournament will be held and whether Pakistan and India will play against each other in the event?”
The ICC is expected to make a decision on the hosting of the Champions Trophy in the coming weeks. If India does not agree to travel to Pakistan, the tournament could be moved to a neutral venue or even canceled altogether.
The trophy tour is part of the ICC’s efforts to promote the Champions Trophy and build excitement for the event. The tournament will feature the top eight ODI teams in the world, including Pakistan, India, England, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.
The Champions Trophy is one of the most prestigious events in international cricket. It was first held in 1998 and has been won by India, Pakistan, Australia, and South Africa.
