The Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to commence on February 19, with the final set for March 9, may see a change in venue to Dubai if India qualifies. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has repeatedly stated that its participation hinges on approval from the Indian government.
Presently, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has not been informed of any decision regarding India’s withdrawal from the tournament. Consequently, the ICC has allowed Pakistan to prepare for matches involving India in Lahore, located near the border.
Notably, India has not played a match in Pakistan since the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks and last engaged in a bilateral series in 2013. The Indian government also shows no inclination to resume bilateral matches with Pakistan, casting further doubt on the Indian team’s participation in the upcoming Champions Trophy.
Potential Venue Change and Match Preparations
While the ICC has not received any official notification from India regarding non-participation, it is keeping the United Arab Emirates on standby for a potential venue switch. Matches could be conducted in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, although no formal announcement has been made yet.
If a change occurs, Dubai might host the highly anticipated India-Pakistan clash, originally scheduled for March 1 in Lahore. According to reports, the ICC is maintaining flexibility regarding the venues, with Dubai being prepared as a viable option for the final.
However, the precise location of the final will not be confirmed until March 6, just three days prior to the event. This situation is unusual, as it would require both Dubai and Lahore to be prepared simultaneously.
PCB’s Optimism Amid BCCI Silence
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) remains hopeful about India’s participation in the Champions Trophy. BCCI officials have refrained from commenting on the matter recently, but this could change in the coming months.
This tournament marks the first time Pakistan will host a significant cricket event since 1996, and the PCB is committed to ensuring its success. The outcome largely depends on whether the Indian team travels to Pakistan for the tournament, and the board is making extensive preparations to accommodate the event.
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