India’s cricket team has officially decided not to travel to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy scheduled from February 19 to March 9, 2025. This decision, communicated through the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to the International Cricket Council (ICC), stems from ongoing political tensions between the two nations, which have historically affected cricketing relations.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed receiving this notification and is now consulting with the Pakistani government on how to proceed. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi emphasized that Pakistan would not consider a “hybrid model” for hosting matches, which would involve India playing outside Pakistan, as was done during the 2023 Asia Cup.
India last played in Pakistan during the 2008 Asia Cup and has not engaged in bilateral series since 2013 due to security concerns and political issues.
The PCB had hoped for a successful tournament, marking the first ICC event hosted by Pakistan since co-hosting the 1996 World Cup. However, India’s refusal has cast doubt on the tournament’s viability.
The PCB’s frustration is palpable, especially after their decision to send a team to India for the recent ICC Cricket World Cup. They had anticipated reciprocation from India but are now left seeking clarity on India’s stance. Naqvi has urged India to provide a formal written explanation for their refusal, sounding the need for transparency in international cricket relations.
The Champions Trophy will feature eight teams, including traditional rivals like Australia, England, and South Africa. The PCB had reserved Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi as host cities but is now facing uncertainty regarding the tournament’s future without India’s participation. This situation mirrors broader geopolitical tensions that continue to overshadow sporting events between the two countries.
The ICC is expected to step in to find a way the matter can be resolved amicably for all parties. If a hybrid model won’t be adopted, then India may be excluded from the competition totally.
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