Amidst ongoing speculation regarding India’s participation in the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly asked the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to provide written proof from the Indian government denying permission for the team to travel across the border. The last time India toured Pakistan was for the 2008 Asia Cup, and the last bilateral series between the two arch-rivals was held in 2012.
Currently, India and Pakistan only face each other in ICC and continental events due to the suspension of bilateral cricket ties, a result of strained political relations. Last year, when the BCCI refused to send the Indian team to Pakistan for the Asia Cup, the tournament was held in a hybrid model, with India playing all their matches in Sri Lanka.
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According to reports, the BCCI has requested that the ICC consider a hybrid model for the Champions Trophy as well. A PCB source working closely with the organizing committee informed PTI, “If the Indian government declines permission, it has to be in writing, and it is mandatory for the BCCI to provide that letter to the ICC now. We are insistent that the BCCI must inform the ICC about its travel plans to Pakistan at least 5-6 months before the tournament and in writing.”
🚨Champions Trophy: PCB wants BCCI to give written proof of the Indian government’s denial of permission to play in Pakistan.🚨 pic.twitter.com/n2tI21dSZ2
— Sujeet Suman (@sujeetsuman1991) July 15, 2024
Meanwhile, the ICC has already allocated an additional budget for the Champions Trophy in case some matches need to be played outside Pakistan. “The ICC Management is recommending additional costs just in case it is necessary to play some matches outside Pakistan if such a situation arises later on,” the source confirmed.
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In the past, the BCCI has maintained that the decision to send the team to Pakistan rests solely with the Indian government. The Champions Trophy is making a comeback after eight years, with Pakistan hosting the tournament for the first time in its history. A draft schedule has already been submitted to the ICC, placing India and Pakistan in the same group. The event is set to take place from February 19 to March 9.
This development underscores the continuing complexities and geopolitical tensions that impact cricketing relations between India and Pakistan, adding another layer of intrigue to the forthcoming Champions Trophy.
