India will not travel to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and instead will request the International Cricket Council (ICC) to relocate their matches to either Sri Lanka or Dubai. This decision, reported by newswire ANI and quoting sources from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), comes in light of the ongoing strained political relations between India and Pakistan.
Key Points
- Event Details: The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is scheduled to be held in Pakistan between February and March.
- Historical Context: India has not played cricket in Pakistan since the 2008 Asia Cup due to political tensions. Their cricket encounters have since been limited to ICC tournaments and the Asia Cups, with the last bilateral series played in India from December 2012 to January 2013.
BCCI’s Stance
The BCCI has been firm on its stance of not sending the Indian cricket team to Pakistan unless permitted by the Indian government. In May, BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla emphasized that any decision to travel would be contingent on government approval.
“In the case of the Champions Trophy, we will do whatever the Government of India tells us to do. We will send our team only when the Government of India permits,” Rajeev Shukla told ANI.
Proposed Alternatives
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had proposed that India play all its matches in Lahore as a compromise. However, the BCCI has shown interest in relocating the matches to neutral venues like Sri Lanka or Dubai, similar to arrangements made in other international tournaments under similar circumstances.
Recent Developments
- Asia Cup 2023: India won the Asia Cup 2023, with the final held in Colombo, demonstrating successful execution of matches in a neutral venue.
- Hybrid Approach: Despite Pakistan suggesting a hybrid approach for their participation in the ODI World Cup 2023 in India, the idea did not materialize.
Champions Trophy History
- 2017: Pakistan won the ICC Champions Trophy.
- 2002: India and Sri Lanka were declared joint winners after the final and reserve day were washed out.
- 2013: India won the trophy by defeating England.
The BCCI’s move to seek an alternate venue reflects ongoing diplomatic challenges and emphasizes the role of cricket in international relations. The final decision will depend on the approval and cooperation of the ICC and the respective cricket boards of Sri Lanka and Dubai.
