Champions Trophy 2025: Security Concerns Rise as Tournament Returns to Pakistan
For the first time in many years, Pakistan is hosting an ICC cricket tournament. Due to security concerns, international matches were not played in Pakistan for a long period. However, from 2019 onward, some teams gradually agreed to tour the country. Despite the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 being held in Pakistan, India has refused to play matches there, leading to a decision to host India’s games in Dubai.
Security Threats and Intelligence Reports
According to India Today, the Pakistan Intelligence Bureau has warned about the possibility of kidnapping attempts targeting foreign nationals attending the tournament. The threat is reportedly linked to Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP), which has been suspected of targeting Chinese and Arab nationals in Pakistan in the past.
Due to these threats, security measures have been intensified across key locations, including airports, ports, offices, and residential areas. Reports from CNN-News18 also suggest that groups such as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), ISIS, and certain Balochistan-based groups could attempt similar attacks. In response, Pakistani security forces, local police, and airstrikes have been deployed to potential high-risk areas. Enhanced security has also been provided to foreign players and staff for matches scheduled in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi.
Why Did India Refuse to Play in Pakistan?
Security concerns in Pakistan are not new. One of the most significant incidents occurred in 2009, when the Sri Lankan cricket team was attacked by terrorists while traveling in Lahore. Several Sri Lankan players and an ICC umpire were injured in the attack. Following this event, Pakistan was barred from hosting international matches for nearly a decade, leading the team to play its home games in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
By 2019, international teams gradually resumed bilateral series in Pakistan, but security concerns remain. As a result, India has refused to play matches in Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025, with the BCCI and ICC deciding to host India’s matches in Dubai instead.
Participating Teams and Semi-Final Venue Shift
This is Pakistan’s first ICC-hosted tournament since the 1996 Cricket World Cup, which was co-hosted with India and Sri Lanka. The six teams playing in Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025 include:
- Australia
- England
- South Africa
- New Zealand
- Bangladesh
- Afghanistan
However, if India reaches the semi-finals, their match will be played in Dubai, regardless of the opponent.
