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Mohsin Naqvi, Champions Trophy and Jay Shah., pc: X

Xtra Time Web Desk: The recent terror attack in Karachi has raised serious doubts about Pakistan’s ability to safely host international cricket, jeopardizing its bid to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The explosion, which targeted Chinese engineers near Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport, has added to Pakistan’s already precarious reputation for ensuring the safety of visiting teams. Two Chinese nationals were killed and over 10 others injured in the blast, which was claimed by the Balochistan Liberation Army.

This attack has intensified concerns among cricket boards worldwide, and particularly India's. India was already hesitant about sending its team to Pakistan due to long-standing political tensions and security concerns. Now, the latest act of violence may almost seal the fate of India’s participation, with the Indian government unlikely to grant clearance for the team to travel. Pakistan's hopes of successfully hosting the Champions Trophy have been further dented as other nations may also reconsider their decision to send teams.

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#WATCH | At least three foreign nationals died while 17 others sustained injuries in a huge explosion near Jinnah International Airport, Karachi, reports Pakistan's Geo News.

(Video: Reuters) pic.twitter.com/qrJdStV9F7

— ANI (@ANI) October 7, 2024

Pakistan’s history of violence targeting international teams casts a long shadow over its cricketing future. The 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore remains a painful reminder, as players were injured and several policemen lost their lives. Since then, many international teams have been reluctant to tour Pakistan, with India abstaining from bilateral cricket with Pakistan since 2008.

Despite the optimism of Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who is hopeful India will participate, the ongoing security risks make it difficult for the PCB to guarantee player safety. If this latest attack prompts further withdrawals, the ICC may have to reconsider Pakistan’s status as a host for the tournament, with the possibility of shifting games to a neutral venue or adopting a hybrid model, as was done for the 2023 Asia Cup.

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In light of the Karachi blast, Pakistan’s cricketing future as a host nation hangs in the balance.