India-Pakistan Cricket: The UAE Ambassador to India, Abdulnasser Alshaali, has extended an offer to host the much-anticipated cricket match between India and Pakistan, signaling the UAE’s readiness to facilitate this high-profile sporting event.
In a recent media interview, Alshaali stated, “We have always hosted such games. The UAE is open for business and open for sports,” highlighting the country’s proven track record in organizing international cricket events.
This proposal comes amidst ongoing uncertainty over the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, which Pakistan is slated to host. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has raised security concerns, making it unlikely for the Indian team to travel to Pakistan. On the other hand, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) remains firm on hosting the tournament entirely within Pakistan.
As a potential resolution, the BCCI suggested a hybrid model, wherein India’s matches would take place in a neutral venue. However, the PCB has rejected this approach.
Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal recently reaffirmed the BCCI’s position, emphasizing security as a critical factor. Echoing this sentiment, BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla underlined that the safety of Indian players is paramount.
India last toured Pakistan in 2008 during the Asia Cup, and the two nations have not engaged in a bilateral series since the 2012-13 white-ball matches in India. Since then, their cricketing encounters have been limited to ICC tournaments and Asia Cups, intensifying the anticipation around any potential meeting between the arch-rivals.
With the UAE’s established reputation as a neutral venue, Alshaali’s proposal could pave the way for resolving the impasse and bringing the cricketing giants together.