Pakistan is gearing up to host its first ICC event since 1997, with the Champions Trophy 2025 set to commence in February. However, the tournament has already been embroiled in controversy, as reports suggest India has refused to travel to Pakistan due to longstanding political tensions between the two nations. The Indian government’s stance on not permitting the Men in Blue to tour across the border has left the cricketing world divided.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has cited the Indian government’s concerns, officially opting out of sending the team to Pakistan. Meanwhile, tensions flared further when the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) unveiled plans to take the Champions Trophy to venues in Skardu, Hunza, and Muzaffarabad, which are located in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). This move drew sharp criticism from BCCI Secretary Jay Shah, who strongly objected to PCB’s actions.
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“Jay Shah has condemned PCB’s decision to include PoJK cities in their promotional activities. PCB has no business announcing plans independently when such matters fall under ICC’s purview. These things must be handled through proper channels,” a BCCI insider told The Times of India.
Reports also suggest PCB is unwilling to entertain a hybrid model for the Champions Trophy, which would allow India to play their matches at a neutral venue. This model was successfully implemented during the Asia Cup 2023, where India played all their matches in Sri Lanka instead of Pakistan.
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Amid these tensions, there is growing speculation that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) could serve as a neutral venue for India’s games in the Champions Trophy. The UAE’s proximity to Pakistan and its history of hosting international cricket for Pakistan during their ICC ban makes it a feasible option.
As the ICC navigates these geopolitical challenges, the fate of India’s participation in the Champions Trophy 2025 remains uncertain, potentially setting the stage for another showdown in cricket diplomacy.
