Champions Trophy 2025: India-Pakistan Jersey Controversy Sparks Debate
The Champions Trophy 2025 is set to kick off on February 19, with Pakistan as the official host. However, tensions have escalated between the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) over a controversial development involving Team India’s jersey.
Reports suggest that the Indian team has refused to include Pakistan’s name as the host on their Champions Trophy jersey. Typically, the host nation’s name is prominently featured on all participating teams’ jerseys for ICC tournaments. This decision, though not officially confirmed by the BCCI, has stirred a new debate, especially after PCB officials raised concerns over what they describe as “politics in cricket.”
PCB’s Reaction
A senior PCB official accused the BCCI of creating unnecessary controversy by refusing to display Pakistan’s name on the jersey. “First, they refused to send their team to Pakistan for the tournament. Now, there are reports that Pakistan’s name won’t feature on their jersey either. This is bringing politics into cricket, which is detrimental to the game,” the official told IANS.
The PCB further highlighted that India had also refused to send Rohit Sharma to Pakistan for the captains’ meeting ahead of the tournament, another move they believe undermines the spirit of international cricket.
BCCI’s Stand
The BCCI has yet to release an official statement on the jersey issue. However, the Indian board has consistently maintained its position against sending Team India to Pakistan, citing security concerns. The ICC ultimately decided that all of India’s matches during the Champions Trophy would be played in Dubai, while the rest of the tournament would proceed in Pakistan.
A Reciprocal Agreement
The controversy doesn’t end there. In response to India’s decision to avoid traveling to Pakistan, the PCB has reportedly agreed not to send its teams to India for future ICC tournaments. Under this arrangement, Pakistan’s matches in India-hosted ICC tournaments will also be held at neutral venues.
What’s Next?
The ICC has yet to weigh in on the jersey controversy, but tensions between the BCCI and PCB continue to rise. With just weeks left until the tournament, this disagreement could further strain relations between the two cricketing boards.
The Champions Trophy 2025 promises high-octane action on the field, but off-field politics might cast a long shadow over the tournament.
