Former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq has accused the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) of having an unfair advantage over other cricketing nations. Meanwhile, ex-spinner Saqlain Mushtaq has challenged India to prove their dominance by playing a full-fledged series against Pakistan.
Inzamam’s remarks come amid criticism over India’s decision to play all its Champions Trophy 2025 matches in Dubai under a hybrid model, avoiding travel to Pakistan due to security concerns. The move has sparked backlash from former cricketers and journalists, who have labelled the tournament a “farce.”
Acknowledging India’s favourable position, Inzamam called on cricket boards worldwide to boycott the Indian Premier League (IPL) in protest. He argued that if Indian players do not participate in overseas T20 leagues, other nations should reconsider allowing their players to play in the IPL.
“Top players take part in IPL, but Indian players don’t play in other leagues. If BCCI doesn’t allow its players to participate abroad, other boards should take a stand and stop sending their players to the IPL,” Inzamam said on Pakistan’s 24 News HD.
It’s important to note that Indian players are contractually restricted from competing in foreign leagues unless they retire from Indian cricket, including the IPL and domestic tournaments.
Meanwhile, Saqlain Mushtaq, speaking on the same show, challenged India to a 30-match series against Pakistan—comprising 10 Tests, 10 ODIs, and 10 T20Is—to settle the debate over which team is superior.
“If we put politics aside, their players are very good, and they have been playing well. But if they truly are the best, let’s play 10 Tests, 10 ODIs, and 10 T20Is against Pakistan to settle it once and for all,” Saqlain said.
