The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has clarified that it has not yet received any official proposal from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) regarding India’s participation in the Champions Trophy 2025. Whether India will participate remains uncertain, as the Indian government’s approval is still pending.
With bilateral cricket relations between India and Pakistan remaining strained since 2008, the tournament is already facing speculation. A potential hybrid model has also been discussed, similar to the 2023 Asia Cup, where India’s matches could take place in the UAE or another neutral venue.
India’s Matches Could Be Played in UAE Amid Security Concerns
Reports suggest that PCB has internally accepted that India might not travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. One proposal hinted that Indian players could travel between Delhi or Chandigarh after every game for security reasons, but BCCI has denied receiving any such plan officially.
Even if India decides to participate, the PCB has made it clear that the final will not move out of Lahore, regardless of whether India qualifies. The Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, which hosted the 1996 World Cup final, is being prepared to host this marquee event with expanded seating capacity.
Pakistan Insists on Hosting the Final in Lahore
PCB is determined to conduct the entire Champions Trophy within Pakistan, but they are also prepared to shift some matches to UAE if India refuses to travel. However, the final will remain in Lahore, as the PCB does not want to change its venue under any circumstances.
An official from the PCB reiterated, “Our top priority is to host the event in Pakistan, but if India doesn’t play here, we’ll accommodate their matches in UAE. Still, the final will be at Gaddafi Stadium.”
Political Relations Impacting Sports
The diplomatic tension between India and Pakistan continues to impact cricket. The two teams only meet during ICC events or multi-nation tournaments, with no bilateral series taking place for more than a decade.
Given the strained relations, BCCI may suggest holding matches at neutral venues if India participates, ensuring safety while allowing competition. The Indian government’s decision will play a decisive role in determining whether the team travels to Pakistan for the tournament.
