Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) may be influencing the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)’s firm stance on issues surrounding the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

In a recent interview with a local TV channel, former fast bowler and renowned cricketer Shoaib Akhtar, also known as the "Rawalpindi Express," expressed his belief that back-channel negotiations between Pakistan and India will eventually lead to India’s participation in the Champions Trophy,

Former Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Akhtar believes the fate of the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan hinges on political decisions. While the BCCI refuses to send the Indian team to Pakistan, Akhtar hopes for back-channel talks and highlights the potential financial losses for Pakistan if India doesn't participate.

Pace great Shoaib Akhtar gave his take on the ongoing controversy surrounding the ICC Champions Trophy and said there is still a chance of India coming to play the tournament in Pakistan. Akhtar said the BCCI and PCB will figure a way out.