“Do we risk security and security?” Aakash Chopra raises concerns about Pakistan hosting the masters of Trophy 2025

Do We Risk Security by Hosting the Masters Trophy in Pakistan?

Cricket enthusiast and former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has sparked a heated debate by expressing concerns over Pakistan hosting the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Chopra’s sentiments have been echoed by many, who question the safety and security of players, officials, and fans in the wake of numerous terrorist attacks and security breaches in the country.

Pakistan has a chequered history of hosting international cricket matches, with several high-profile events being cancelled or postponed due to security concerns. The 2009 Lahore terrorist attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team, which left six Pakistani police officers and two civilians dead, is a stark reminder of the risks involved.

In recent years, Pakistan has made significant strides in improving its security infrastructure, including the deployment of additional security personnel and the installation of state-of-the-art surveillance systems. However, Chopra and others argue that these measures may not be enough to guarantee the safety of international cricketers and their support staff.

"The security concerns in Pakistan are well-documented, and it’s not just about the terrorist threats," Chopra said in an interview. "There have been instances of players and officials being attacked, and the authorities have failed to provide adequate protection. I don’t think it’s worth risking the lives of our cricketers and staff for the sake of hosting a tournament."

Chopra’s concerns are shared by many in the cricketing community, who point to the fact that several international teams have refused to tour Pakistan in recent years. The Bangladesh cricket team, for instance, was attacked by a group of unidentified assailants in Lahore in 2015, and the Sri Lankan team was forced to flee the country after the 2009 terrorist attack.

The ICC, the governing body of world cricket, has announced that the Champions Trophy 2025 will be hosted by Pakistan, but it remains to be seen whether the tournament will go ahead as planned. The ICC has expressed confidence in Pakistan’s ability to provide a safe and secure environment for the tournament, but Chopra and others believe that the risks outweigh the benefits.

"In today’s world, security is paramount, and we can’t afford to take any chances," Chopra said. "The ICC should reconsider its decision and look for alternative hosts who can provide a safer and more secure environment for the players and officials."

The debate surrounding the Champions Trophy 2025 has highlighted the delicate balance between sports and security. While cricket is a beloved sport around the world, it’s impossible to ignore the risks involved in hosting international matches in countries with a history of terrorism and security breaches.

Ultimately, the decision to host the Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan will depend on a range of factors, including the level of security provided by the authorities and the risks involved. One thing is certain, however – the safety and security of players, officials, and fans must be the top priority in any decision-making process.