ICC Champions Trophy 2025: India Not to Tour Pakistan
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to be held in Pakistan next year. The BCCI has already made it clear that they will not send the Indian team to Pakistan. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has insisted that India should play in Pakistan and not in any other country. Recently, a report revealed that the BCCI has put forward a condition to the PCB, stating that they will not tour Pakistan under any circumstances.
BCCI’s Condition for Playing the Champions Trophy
For the Champions Trophy, the BCCI has proposed a hybrid model to the PCB, suggesting that India’s matches be played in Dubai. It is known that the Indian government will not allow the team to travel to Pakistan, as was the case with the 2023 Asia Cup, due to the ongoing political situation between the two countries.
According to a report in Times of India, the BCCI has communicated its decision to the PCB and other stakeholders. It is likely that some matches will be played in Dubai. A source mentioned, “Yes, BCCI has expressed its concerns about playing Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan. They want to play the matches at a neutral venue, and Dubai is a strong candidate to host the matches involving the Indian team.” Dubai is a strong contender to host the tournament, given its experience in hosting international events, including the recent Women’s T20 World Cup.
Possible Options for Hosting the Champions Trophy
- The Champions Trophy could be held in Pakistan.
- The tournament could be played under a hybrid model.
- There could be a change in the venues for the entire Champions Trophy.
India Hasn’t Visited Pakistan Since 2008
The Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place in February-March next year, with the tournament expected to begin on February 19 and the final potentially being played on March 9. Since Pakistan hosted the 1996 ODI World Cup, it has not hosted any ICC tournament. Pakistan was co-hosted for the 2011 ODI World Cup, but the 2008 terrorist attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team prevented them from hosting the event. Since 2008, India has not sent its team to Pakistan.
