LAHORE: Pakistan top-order batter Ahmed Shehzad has proposed an unconventional idea to restore cricketing relations between Pakistan and India amid ongoing political tensions.

Shehzad, known for his outspoken views, suggested constructing a stadium at the border between the two countries, allowing players to participate without crossing into each other’s territories. “I proposed building a stadium on the border, with one gate facing India and the other towards Pakistan. Players could enter from their respective sides and play,” Shehzad shared during a podcast. However, he humorously pointed out the challenges such an arrangement would face, particularly with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Indian government.

“Even then, there would be issues for the BCCI and their government. When their players come to our side, they would need visas, which they would not get,” he added. The proposal comes after recent tensions between the two nations, triggered by India’s refusal to visit Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Initially, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) was determined to host the entire tournament in Pakistan but later adopted a reciprocal stance, stating that if India refused to travel, Pakistan would not participate in events hosted by India. Following this, the ICC confirmed a hybrid model for the Champions Trophy 2025, with India playing their matches at a neutral venue.  This model will also be implemented for ICC events from 2024 to 2027.