BCCI's Rajeev Shukla praises PCB for successfully organising Champions Trophy

The Chairman of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Rajeev Shukla, commended the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for successfully organizing the Champions Trophy, calling the event a resounding success.

Shukla traveled to Pakistan to attend the second semifinal of the ICC Champions Trophy between New Zealand and South Africa at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium on Wednesday.

He was joined by heads and senior officials from the cricket boards of South Africa, New Zealand, Bangladesh, and Zimbabwe, all of whom were invited by the PCB to the event.

According to the PCB, five representatives from different cricket boards were present at the knockout match. Among them were Shukla (BCCI), Roger Twose (New Zealand Cricket), Farooq Ahmed (Bangladesh Cricket Board), and Pholetsi Isaac Moseki and Dr. Mohammed Moosajee from Cricket South Africa.

The PCB shared video footage showing the dignitaries watching the match with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.

During his visit, Shukla addressed the media and reiterated that, while the world may propose matches between Pakistan and India, the Indian Board’s policy remains clear: "Bilateral series will be played in our respective countries."

He praised the organization of the Champions Trophy, stating, "The ICC Champions Trophy has been organized very well in Pakistan. It is an international event of great significance, and it has been a successful one."

Regarding the Asia Cup, Shukla confirmed that it had already been decided that Pakistan’s matches would be held at a neutral venue.

Shukla's visit holds special significance, as the BCCI had previously declined to send the Indian men's team to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, citing Indian government directives. This decision had led to extensive negotiations between the BCCI and PCB over hosting arrangements.

These discussions resulted in the 'hybrid formula,' a compromise proposed by the PCB. The formula stipulates that for the next three years, when either India or Pakistan hosts multi-nation tournaments, matches between the two countries will take place at neutral venues. 

While no official discussions between the BCCI and PCB were reported during Shukla's visit, his presence in Lahore is being seen as a step toward improving cricket relations between the neighboring countries.