"If you believe something will happen by not coming to India, then don't come and see for yourself."

The war of words between India and Pakistan has reignited over the upcoming Champions Trophy, set to take place in February-March in Pakistan. India has announced that it will not send a team to the tournament, while the ICC is reluctant to challenge the Indian market. Discussions are ongoing regarding potential solutions.

Former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has added his voice to the debate. Known for his strong remarks against Pakistan, Harbhajan stated that if Pakistan believes India will suffer if they don't send a team, they can "watch it from afar" instead of coming to India.

The controversy surrounding India’s decision not to participate in the tournament has led to questions about why the Pakistani team hasn’t played in India recently. The discussions around the Champions Trophy have sparked a wider debate about the tournament's location. India has proposed a 'hybrid model' for the tournament, with matches involving India being held outside Pakistan. While Pakistan initially rejected this suggestion, they are now open to the hybrid model—on the condition that future tournaments in India also hold Pakistan's matches outside the country.

Harbhajan expressed his opinion on the matter, saying that while India’s absence would be a major blow to the tournament and cricket in general, Pakistan's absence from India wouldn't have the same impact. In an interview with Sports Today, he challenged Pakistan's stance, remarking, "If you think that by not coming to India, we will suffer, then don't come and watch!"

Harbhajan also emphasized the importance of moving forward with the hybrid model, suggesting that Pakistan should prioritize the fans' interest over ego. "The fans are eager to watch the game," he noted. He further pointed out that India-Pakistan matches are already rare, and blocking the hybrid model could threaten the tournament altogether.

In response to Pakistan's firm stance following India's decision, Harbhajan remarked, "Do you think anything will change if you don’t come to India? Not at all! If you think your absence will stop the tournament in India, that’s your opinion. The option to stay away is always open for you!"

He even proposed relocating the Champions Trophy to Dubai or Abu Dhabi, citing that players would be willing to play there. "Ask any player—they'd love to play in Abu Dhabi or Dubai. We hardly see India-Pakistan matches anymore. Pakistan should put aside its ego and agree to the hybrid model."

Addressing the common cricket fans of Pakistan, Harbhajan expressed sympathy for them, saying, "It's sad for the fans there. They’re innocent, and they deserve to see top players like Kohli up close. But nothing will change until the political situation improves."

Reflecting on his past visits to Pakistan, Harbhajan fondly remembered the warm hospitality he received, sharing that fans there were generous, even paying for meals and presenting him with a shawl.