The PCB has assured swift visa processing for Indian fans ahead of the Champions Trophy, expressing hope for their attendance despite longstanding political tensions that may hinder travel.
New Delhi: The Pakistan Cricket Board has promised swift visa processing for Indian fans planning to attend the upcoming Champions Trophy, reflecting their eagerness to host the Indian team. However, longstanding political tensions between the two nations cast doubt on the likelihood of such travel occurring.
PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi provided assurances regarding expedited visa processing for Indian fans during a meeting with Sikh pilgrims from the United States. However, with only three months remaining until the Champions Trophy, there remains no official confirmation regarding India’s travel to Pakistan.
Naqvi stated that the Pakistan Cricket Board anticipates a favorable response from Indian fans wishing to visit Pakistan for the tournament, but ultimately, it hinges on directives from the Indian government.
“We will be keeping a special quota of tickets for Indian fans and we will try to make the visa issuance policy brisk,” Naqvi was quoted as saying by a local newspaper.
The PCB chief expressed a desire for Indian fans to visit Pakistan and experience the marquee India vs. Pakistan clash in Lahore.
Pakistan is set to host the Champions Trophy next February, but the International Cricket Council has yet to release the tournament schedule, pending confirmation from the Indian government on whether their team will be allowed to travel to Pakistan for the event.
The Indian cricket board has made it clear that the decision regarding travel to Pakistan will rest with the Indian government, and they will adhere to its directives.
Since the 2008 Mumbai terror attack, no Indian team has traveled to Pakistan, and there have been no Test series between the two nations in the last 17 years. If India does not travel for the Champions Trophy, the tournament could potentially be conducted in a hybrid format, with India playing their matches in the UAE.