Uncertainty surrounds India captain potential visit to Pakistan of Rohit Sharma for the ICC’s official captains’ call. As reported by ESPNcricinfo, there has been no confirmation from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) or the International Cricket Council (ICC).
The ninth edition of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy is set to take place from February 19 to March 9, 2025. Matches will be held across venues in Pakistan and the UAE. The captains’ event, traditionally held before the tournament, is tentatively scheduled for February 16 or 17 in Karachi.
Visit of Rohit Sharma
However, as per BCCI Secretary Devjit Saikia, discussions regarding Rohit Sharma travel have not yet taken place. Saikia clarified, “It (Rohit travelling to Pakistan) has not yet been discussed. It is not on the agenda yet,” according to ESPNcricinfo.
Political Strains and Cricketing History
India has not toured Pakistan since 2008 due to ongoing political tensions between the two nations. Their last bilateral series occurred in the 2012-13 season, featuring limited-overs matches in India. Since then, encounters between the arch-rivals have been restricted to ICC events and Asia Cups.
Notably, Pakistan visited India for the 2016 T20 World Cup and the 2023 ODI World Cup. Meanwhile, Indian cricket officials have occasionally traveled to Pakistan. For example, in 2023, BCCI President Roger Binny and Vice President Rajiv Shukla attended a PCB-hosted dinner in Lahore. This visit occurred during the Asia Cup, upon an invitation extended by then PCB Chairman Zaka Ashraf.
Rohit Sharma visit and Jersey Guideline
BCCI Secretary Saikia also addressed recent reports about India potentially omitting Pakistan’s name from their jerseys. He confirmed that the board will adhere to all ICC guidelines regarding team uniforms.
The Champions Trophy features eight teams and includes 15 50-over matches. Matches will take place across venues in Pakistan and Dubai. Group A includes Pakistan, India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, while Group B features Australia, Afghanistan, England, and South Africa.
Key Fixtures
India vs Pakistan: February 23 in Dubai.
India’s Campaign:
First Match: February 20 vs Bangladesh.
Last League Match: March 2 vs New Zealand.
As the countdown to the tournament begins, fans eagerly await clarity on Rohit Sharma’s participation in the captains’ event. Furthermore, excitement is already building for the high-stakes clash on February 23.
