Indian media has reported that the Indian cricket team is unlikely to travel to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy matches in 2025.
The tournament, hosted by Pakistan, is scheduled for February and March 2025.
According to the schedule released by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the ICC, all of India’s matches are set to take place at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, including a high-profile clash with Pakistan on March 1st.
However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not yet confirmed or denied the participation of the Indian team in Pakistan.
The Champions Trophy was last held in 2017, where Pakistan triumphed over India in the final. Despite this, Indian media suggests that there are significant doubts about the Indian team traveling to Pakistan.
Reports indicate that a hybrid model might be considered, with some matches potentially being held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) or Sri Lanka if India opts out of playing in Pakistan. The final decision regarding India’s participation is expected to be made by the Indian government.
On the other hand, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has asserted that Pakistan will host the entire Champions Trophy tournament within its borders.
He emphasized that this issue will be addressed at an upcoming ICC Board Meeting in Colombo later in July. Naqvi’s stance reflects Pakistan’s determination to host the tournament domestically.
It is important to note that bilateral cricket series between Pakistan and India have been suspended since 2013, and the Indian team has not visited Pakistan for any tournament since 2008.
This long-standing tension adds another layer of complexity to the current situation regarding the Champions Trophy.
