“Build a Stadium on the Border”: Ahmed Shehzad Reacts to Hybrid Model for ICC Tournaments
Former Pakistan opener Ahmed Shehzad has sparked discussions. He made a unique proposal to end the cricketing standoff between India and Pakistan. On the Nadir Ali podcast, Shehzad suggested building a stadium on the border. It would have one gate in India and the other in Pakistan. This would help to hold matches between the two arch-rivals.
This comment follows the ICC’s hybrid model decision. India and Pakistan will play their ICC tournament matches at neutral venues. This is due to political tensions between the two nations.
A Stadium on the Border?
Ahmed Shehzad’s idea of a stadium on the India-Pakistan border is bold and controversial. He envisions a venue where Indian players enter through one gate on their side of the border. Pakistani cricketers would enter from their side.
“There should be a stadium on the border with one gate in India and the other in Pakistan. Their players can enter from there and our cricketers from here. I think the BCCI and the Indiann government will have a problem with that. They will say that if our players come to their side of the ground, the visa will not be given,” Shehzad said.
However, Shehzad acknowledged the potential challenges, particularly with India’s government.
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Hosting Rights
India refused to travel to Pakistan for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. They had security concerns. So, the ICC adopted a hybrid model. The tournament will now be hosted by Pakistan, but India’s matches will take place at neutral venues.
Shehzad noted that all cricket boards, including the BCCI, had signed an agreement in 2021. It was when Pakistan was awarded the Champions Trophy hosting rights.
“Pakistan had a chance to host the Indian team as all cricketers boards signed the agreement letter in 2021 when the rights of the tournament were alloted to our country,” he added.
“India Will Never Come to Pakistan”
Shehzad was disappointed by India’s refusal to tour Pakistan. He said it undermines the spirit of cricket.
“I am sure that India will never come to Pakistan to play cricket,” Shehzad stated bluntly, reflecting the frustration shared by many in Pakistan’s cricketing community.
The Hybrid Model: A Pragmatic Solution or a Missed Opportunity?
The ICC’s hybrid model aims to balance India’s and Pakistan’s tensions. It also needs both to play in global tournaments. The decision lets ICC events proceed without major disruptions. But, it has reignited debates about their strained cricketing ties.
Shehzad’s border-stadium proposal, though unlikely to succeed, reflects a desire for a solution to one of cricket’s oldest rivalries.
As the Champions Trophy 2025 approaches, it remains to be seen whether diplomatic breakthroughs can bring the two cricketing giants back on the same field in their respective countries.