The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided not to send the Indian cricket team to Pakistan for next year’s Champions Trophy. According to Indian media, the BCCI has formally informed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) that they won’t be traveling to Pakistan due to security concerns.
Instead, the BCCI has proposed holding India’s matches at a neutral venue, ideally Dubai.
Since the ICC announced Pakistan as the 2025 Champions Trophy host, there have been doubts about India’s participation due to ongoing diplomatic tensions between the two countries. The tournament schedule is expected to be released by November 11.
In a similar situation last year, Pakistan hosted the Asia Cup in a hybrid format after India refused to play in Pakistan. India’s matches were held in Sri Lanka.
The upcoming 50-over ICC tournament will feature the world’s top eight teams competing in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi. The PCB had offered the BCCI options, including playing India’s matches in Lahore or allowing the team to return to Chandigarh or Delhi after each match. However, the BCCI declined all options.
