Former Pakistan captain Younis Khan has issued a strong challenge to newly appointed ICC President Jay Shah, urging him to demonstrate true sportsmanship by ensuring India’s participation in the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan.
Younis Khan, who has always been an advocate of fostering strong cricket ties between India and Pakistan, stressed the importance of Jay Shah’s presidency in improving the game globally.
Younis Khan urges Jay Shah to ensure India’s participation in 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan
The legendary batsman believes that Jay Shah will be crucial in breaking down barriers and ushering in India’s long-awaited return to Pakistan for an international tournament. The legendary batsman welcomed the appointment of the former BCCI secretary as the ICC president and expressed hope that his tenure will bring positive changes to the game across the world.
He stressed that Jay Shah’s influence could pave the way for India to travel to Pakistan, which will not only enhance their cricketing relations but also serve as a significant goodwill gesture in the game.
Younis Khan was quoted by Cricket Pakistan as saying, “Cricket should improve with the appointment of Jay Shah as ICC chief. Jay Shah needs to show the sportsmanship as with the good initiatives of the ICC chief, India can come to Pakistan to play cricket. In the same way, Pakistan can visit India.”
Younis Khan: Pakistan players urgently need to improve their morale
Meanwhile, Younis did not mince words about Pakistan’s recent struggles on the field. Reflecting on Pakistan’s humiliating 10-wicket defeat to Bangladesh in the first Test match, the legendary batsman said they need to play with renewed determination and pride.
Younis, who led Pakistan to their famous victory in the 2009 T20 World Cup, urged the Shan Masood-led Pakistan team to overcome these challenges and show some courage after their crushing defeat against Bangladesh.
He questioned the benefits of home advantage if players cannot handle the associated pressures, and called for a much-needed boost in morale to mount a strong comeback in the second Test, which begins on August 30 in Rawalpindi.
He added: “There is always pressure to play cricket at home. What good is it for the players if they cannot absorb the pressure? There is a dire need for the players to improve their morale. Everyone has seen it, whether the pitch was fast or slow. We have achieved victories at a time when no international cricket was being played in the country.”
Younis slams PCB chairman for remarks on Pakistan cricket
Younis also reacted to comments made by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi after the team’s embarrassing defeat to Bangladesh in the opening match of the ongoing Test series at home. Naqvi had lamented the lack of depth in Pakistan’s playing group.
However, the former Pakistan coach expressed his disagreement with the PCB chief’s assessment and said that their domestic circuit is packed with talent, ready to be nurtured and taken to the international stage.
Younis dismissed concerns about lack of resources and stressed that the country has always had the potential to produce world-class cricketers. “I am not sure why the PCB chairman thinks there is no talent in domestic cricket. We have immense talent in our domestic circuit,” he concluded.
