‘We would also demand the same’: Pakistan minister makes outrageous claim – World Cup in jeopardy again?

Pakistan are yet to confirm their status ahead of the World Cup. Despite meeting most of the demands by BCCI, PCB officials and now their ministers are setting new bars each passing day.

Earlier they had cleared that the participation will only be possible after clearance from the government high command, and now a Pakistani minister has demanded a neutral venue for their World Cup matches.

India’s reluctance to play in Pakistan has forced PCB to adopt a hybrid model for the upcoming Asia Cup in September, which will see Pakistan and Sri Lanka co-host the tournament with India playing their matches in the island country.

And Pakistan’s Sports Minister Ehsaan Mazari has now put some rigid conditions for them to participate in the World Cup.

“My personal opinion, since the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) comes under my ministry, is that if India demands to play their Asia Cup games at a neutral venue, we would also demand the same for our World Cup games in India,” Mazari was quoted as saying by The Indian Express.

The Pakistani minister is also disgruntled by the hybrid model for Asia Cup and said, “Pakistan is the host, it has the right to hold all the matches in Pakistan. That is what the cricket lovers want, I don’t want a hybrid model.”

Mazari then added that the Pakistani high command has already had a meeting and they will send their report to the Prime Minister, who will be then taking the final decision regarding Pakistan’s participation in the upcoming World Cup which starts on October 5 in India.

World Cup 2023 in Jeopardy for Pakistan?

It is a possibility that the government of Pakistan may dwell on the issue and take further time in coming to a conclusion.

PCB’s demands have mostly been met regarding venues and there is no reason for the Pakistani team to not play in India. And even if they decide not to visit, it will only be a huge opportunity missed for Pakistan.