Team India’s Participation in ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Question
As the cricket world gears up for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the spotlight is on Team India and their decision regarding travelling to Pakistan for the prestigious event. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is yet to finalize their stance, with speculation rife that they may opt out of participating due to longstanding geopolitical tensions with Pakistan.
Pakistan, the defending champions of the tournament, are set to host the event after an eight-year hiatus. The tournament, featuring the top seven teams from the ODI World Cup 2023 alongside Pakistan, is scheduled to kick off in February 2025.
However, in the event of India’s non-participation, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has a contingency plan in place. A reported budget of $65 million has been allocated for the tournament, with provisions for hosting matches outside Pakistan if needed.
ICC’s Plan B for Champions Trophy 2025
If India decides not to travel to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy, the ICC is prepared to co-host the tournament at a venue outside Pakistan. This strategy mirrors the approach taken for the ACC Asia Cup 2023, where India’s matches were hosted in Sri Lanka due to their refusal to play in Pakistan.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has signed a host agreement that includes provisions for hosting matches outside Pakistan if required, as per the Chief Executives Committee (CEC).
While preparations are underway in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi for hosting the matches, the final decision rests on India’s participation in the tournament.
Save the Date: ICC Champions Trophy 2025
Mark your calendars for February 19, 2025, as the ICC Champions Trophy kicks off, culminating in the final on March 09. The three-week tournament promises thrilling cricket action in a Round Robin format.