According to the reports in the Indian media, the Indian cricket team’s participation in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to be held in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9, is shrouded in uncertainty. The report, quoting an Indian sports website Sports Tak, stated that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has submitted the draft dates to the International Cricket Council (ICC), but there are significant doubts about India’s participation in the tournament, adding a layer of suspense to the event.
According to a source, the Indian team’s visit to Pakistan for the tournament is highly unlikely. The final decision lies with the Indian government, a crucial factor that the PCB plans to address at the upcoming ICC meeting in Sri Lanka this month.
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The report also highlighted the historical context, emphasizing that India has not visited Pakistan since 2008 and only played a bilateral series in 2012–13. Despite plans for India to travel to Pakistan for the 2023 Asia Cup, the tournament was played in a hybrid mode, with India’s matches, including the final, taking place in Sri Lanka. This historical context adds weight to the decision of India’s participation in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
The PCB has suggested Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Karachi as potential venues for the Champions Trophy 2025. Lahore is set to host seven matches, Rawalpindi five, and Karachi three. The draft also outlines the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore as the venue for the highly-anticipated India-Pakistan match on March 1. All of India’s matches, including the semifinals if they qualify, are planned for Lahore.