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Former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has taken a strong stance in support of the Men in Blue not visiting Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025, which likely starts in February. The retired cricketer underlined that Pakistanis themselves are not safe as security incidents take place quite regularly.
The newly-crowned World T20 champions have not played in their neighboring nation since 2008 due to the uncertain security situation and are highly unlikely to visit for the Champions Trophy as well. The BCCI are likely to propose a hybrid model, according to which Rohit Sharma and co. could play their fixtures in Sri Lanka or UAE.
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Speaking to IANS, Harbhajan questioned why should the Men in Blue visit Pakistan when there is a safety concern. He said:
"Bharat kyun jaaye? Pakistan kyun jaaye, bharat?" (Why should the Indian team go to Pakistan?)
"Why should the Indian team go to Pakistan? There is a safety concern in Pakistan. The situation in Pakistan is such that incidents occur almost every day. I don't think it's safe (for the team) to go there. The stance of the BCCI is absolutely correct and nothing is more important than the safety of our players. I support BCCI's stand," he added.
Pakistan were also the hosts of the Asia Cup last year, but Rohit Sharma's men played their games in Sri Lanka, winning the trophy eventually.
Younis Khan wants India star to play in Pakistan
Former captain Younis Khan said in a recent interview with News24 that playing in Pakistan is the only milestone left in Virat Kohli's illustrious career and should fulfill it next year. He claimed:
"Virat Kohli should come to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy. It is our wish too. I think the only thing left in Virat’s career is to tour Pakistan and perform."
The Delhi-born cricketer has an excellent white-ball record against Pakistan, averaging 52.15 in ODIs and 70.29 in T20Is.
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