LONDON: As cricket fans gear up for the much-hyped ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Mayor of London Sadiq Khan is hoping for a final between the hosts, Men in Green, and England.
Khan said that he would like to see Pakistan and England face off each other in the final for ICC Champions Trophy that is set to commence from February 19 to March 9, marking Pakistan’s long-awaited return to hosting major international cricket after nearly three decades.
“I have a rule: I always support the winner. I don’t lose that way. I hope it’s a great Champions Trophy,” he explained to Geo News.
The tournament is set to begin with the opening match in Karachi between Pakistan and New Zealand, which will be played after a small ceremony at the National Bank Cricket Stadium.
However, the most anticipated clash, as always, will be the high-stakes showdown between arch-rivals Pakistan and India, set to take place on February 23 in Dubai.
The 54-year-old Labour Party leader even asked the England and Pakistan cricket team selectors to call him if they wanted to, showcasing his dedication and love for the sport.
“Look if you are the elector of either Pakistan or England then I am available. I am free, I can take time off and will play,” he said.
The mayor of London hoped that Pakistani star batter Babar Azam will be in the form and will play big knocks.
“England lost just badly in India. Pakistan’s team has not been great recently. I hope Babar Azam comes back in good form. Australia is a really strong side, you cannot write off Australia. South Africa has a good team as well.
“I hope it’s a great tournament; it’s a safe tournament. I am looking forward to seeing the crowds come back to the stadium.”
He expressed his dismay over the lack of visits to Pakistan by international teams for the past several years and hoped that the upcoming ICC tournament is a “successful” one.
“It’s unfortunate that international teams have not been visiting Pakistan for many years. I am hoping it’s a successful ICC tournament. If the home team does well then it’s a good tournament. Maybe a Pakistan-England final,” said Khan.
His remarks came two days after he attended the British Asian Trust (BAT) dinner to raise funds for educational and health development in South Asian countries where he also met Bollywood star Abhishek Bachchan.
“Bollywood star Abhishek is a fantastic actor. We want the Bollywood and Pakistan showbiz industry to come to London and film here,” he said.
“Bachchans are a lovely family. I have met his father and his mother is a great actress. London is the capital of culture. We had a great time at the BAT dinner.
“Importantly, the King’s charity raised money for India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Thanks to Abhishek and all those who helped raise funds.”
