Team India won’t be under any pressure to journey to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy since the International Cricket Council (ICC) will explore other potential locations to host the tournament.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has conveyed its hesitance to travel across the border and has reiterated multiple times that government approval is essential, given the intricate relationship between the two neighboring countries.
India previously journeyed to Pakistan for the 2008 Asia Cup, and although they were expected to do so again for the 2023 edition, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) sanctioned a hybrid arrangement, with India playing all their matches in Sri Lanka.
In contrast, Pakistan visited India for a bilateral series in 2012-13, participated in the 2011 ODI World Cup, the 2016 T20 World Cup, and the 2023 ODI World Cup during the same period.
“Every member can raise concerns for discussion at Board meetings and then it would go to a vote. But if the government (of a member nation) expressly say that they can’t play there, ICC would need to look for an alternative,” a veteran administrator, who has attended multiple board meetings, told PTI on conditions of anonymity.
“….because ICC Board’s position remains that it doesn’t expect its members to go against any policy/instructions issued by its own government,” he Added.
Since 2008, Pakistan has not hosted a tournament, but they have presented a compelling argument by effectively hosting teams from various countries since being permitted to hold matches on their own turf.
The UAE is under consideration as a substitute location for the 2025 Champions Trophy
Once more, a hybrid format might be contemplated, featuring India competing in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Under this format, teams grouped with India in the Champions Trophy could also play their matches in the Middle East.
In the realm of ODI events, the UAE hosted the 2018 Asia Cup. However, players endured challenges due to the scorching heat as the tournament occurred in September. Yet, weather concerns should be minimal since the Champions Trophy is slated for the February-March timeframe.
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