The cricketing world is abuzz with discussions surrounding the 2025 Champions Trophy schedule, particularly the contentious issue of the Indian cricket team’s potential non-participation in the tournament set to be held in Pakistan.
Amid these debates, former Pakistan batter Younis Khan has voiced his perspective, emphasizing the importance of Virat Kohli’s participation in the event.
Speculation about India’s participation has been rampant, fueled by reports that the Indian government may not permit the team to travel to Pakistan due to ongoing political tensions and security concerns. These speculations have intensified discussions within the cricketing community, drawing opinions from prominent figures, including former Pakistani skipper Shahid Afridi.
Joining the conversation, Younis Khan expressed his strong desire for Virat Kohli to play in Pakistan, echoing a sentiment he believes is widely shared among Pakistanis, including fans and former cricketers. Younis emphasized that performing in Pakistan remains one of the few milestones yet to be achieved in Kohli’s storied career.
“Virat Kohli should come to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy. It is our wish too. He should come and perform in Pakistan. I think the only thing left in Virat’s career is to tour Pakistan and perform,” stated Younis Khan to News24, as quoted by NDTV Sports.
Younis’ statement resonates with considerable truth. Kohli, despite his numerous encounters against Pakistan in white-ball cricket, primarily during ICC events, has never played a match on Pakistani soil.
The last time India played a bilateral series in Pakistan was in 2006, two years before Kohli’s international debut. The most recent bilateral series between the two teams occurred in India during the 2012-13 season, where Pakistan toured for two T20Is and three ODIs. While Kohli, then 24, participated in those series, he has yet to play a Test match against Pakistan.
Kohli’s potential participation in the 2025 Champions Trophy would not only mark a significant moment in his career but also serve as a symbolic gesture amid the strained relations between the two cricketing nations. Shahid Afridi, another former Pakistani captain, previously remarked on the profound impact Kohli’s visit could have, suggesting that the Indian star would receive an overwhelming outpouring of love and respect from Pakistani fans.
“Virat Kohli will forget the love he has received in India once he visits Pakistan,” Afridi commented, highlighting the warm reception Kohli is likely to encounter.
The broader implications of Kohli’s potential visit extend beyond cricket, touching upon the diplomatic and cultural ties between India and Pakistan. Cricket has often acted as a bridge between the two countries, fostering goodwill and mutual respect despite political differences.
As the debate continues, the cricketing fraternity remains hopeful for a resolution that allows for India’s participation in the Champions Trophy, enabling players like Kohli to add new chapters to their illustrious careers on Pakistani soil. The anticipation for such a landmark event shows the unifying power of sport, capable of transcending borders and bringing together fans and players in celebration of the game.
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