Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) may be influencing the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)’s firm stance on issues surrounding the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

The ongoing dispute over the venue for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy remains unresolved, with Pakistan insisting on hosting the entire tournament on home soil, while India has proposed a ‘hybrid model’ that would see their matches and the final take place in Dubai.

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar feels that Virat Kohli wants to play in front of Pakistan crowds during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Former Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Akhtar believes the fate of the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan hinges on political decisions. While the BCCI refuses to send the Indian team to Pakistan, Akhtar hopes for back-channel talks and highlights the potential financial losses for Pakistan if India doesn't participate.

Pace great Shoaib Akhtar gave his take on the ongoing controversy surrounding the ICC Champions Trophy and said there is still a chance of India coming to play the tournament in Pakistan. Akhtar said the BCCI and PCB will figure a way out.