Pakistan enraged by Harbhajan Singh’s ultimatum, former Pakistani cricketer counters, keep cricket away from politics.

News India Live, Digital Desk: Between hosting the Champions Trophy 2025 and the Indian team’s decision not to go to Pakistan, the rhetoric on social media is at its peak. The tough stance taken by veteran Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh recently, stating that the safety of Indian players is paramount, has set the cricket corridors of Pakistan on fire. Now a former Pakistani veteran has termed Bhajji’s stance as ‘unnecessary’.

Root of controversy: That statement of Harbhajan Singh

Harbhajan Singh had clarified during an interview/social media post that if security is not guaranteed in Pakistan, then there is no need for the Indian team to go there. His ‘ultimatum’ tone indicated that no major tournament could be successful without India.

Pakistan’s counterattack: What did the former cricketer say?

According to News18, a former Pakistan cricketer (possibly Rashid Latif or a player of similar stature) took strong exception to Harbhajan’s statement, saying:

“Security is just an excuse”: His argument is that other international teams are touring Pakistan, so what problem does India have?

“Political interference”: The former cricketer alleged that big players like Harbhajan should not make statements linking sports with politics.

“Disadvantages of Cricket”: He warned that if India continues to deny this, it will damage the reputation of cricket at the global level.

Clouds of crisis over Champions Trophy

This controversy has come at a time when the ICC is considering a hybrid model regarding the venue of the Champions Trophy. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is adamant that the entire tournament should be held in Pakistan, whereas BCCI is not ready to send its team due to security reasons.