Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has voiced his opinion against India travelling to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, suggesting instead that the tournament should adopt a hybrid model. Kaneria's comments come amid ongoing speculation about whether the Indian government will permit the national cricket team to play in Pakistan, given the current diplomatic tensions between the two neighbouring countries.

Pakistan is gearing up to host its first major ICC event since the 1996 World Cup, with the Champions Trophy scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9, 2025.India has not toured Pakistan since 2008, primarily due to strained political relations. The absence of bilateral cricket ties for over a decade has meant that India and Pakistan only compete against each other in ICC tournaments or Asia Cup events.

Danish Kaneria expressed his concerns regarding the security situation in Pakistan and advocated for a hybrid hosting model.“Looking at the situation in Pakistan, I have to say that the Indian team should not go to Pakistan, and Pakistan should think about it. The ICC will make their decision, and most likely the Champions Trophy will be played in a hybrid model in Dubai,” Kaneria told Sports Tak.

Kaneria emphasised the importance of player safety, stating, “The safety of the players is the priority. Respect is the second priority. I think BCCI is doing a great job. Whatever their decision is, other countries will also have to accept that. I think it will be a hybrid model.”

Kaneria also emphasized the economic contribution of the Indian team to cricket tournaments, pointing out that financial considerations largely drive the PCB's insistence on hosting the Champions Trophy. “They’re [PCB] equipped but they must upgrade the infrastructure first. Security is the biggest concern, a big question mark. The reason why Pakistan is adamant about hosting the competition is because of the TV rights, sponsors, revenue, and fans filling up the stadiums,” Kaneria explained.

He further added, “They are so eager because with India, there will be more sponsorships, more media coverage, and more. That’s all right, but the grey area is the security concern. Pakistan can claim that they also traveled to India (for the 2023 ODI World Cup), but the situation there is far better.”