Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) vice-president Rajeev Shukla has underscored that the Indian cricket team’s participation in the Champions Trophy, slated to be held in Pakistan next year, hinges upon the approval of the central government.
Scheduled for February-March, the Champions Trophy in Pakistan has sparked deliberations regarding India’s potential tour to the neighbouring nation. Bilateral series between India and Pakistan have remained dormant for an extended period, with encounters limited to multinational tournaments like ICC events and the Asia Cup. The last bilateral series occurred in 2012-2013, while the recent clash between the two sides transpired during last year’s ODI World Cup in India, culminating in an Indian victory. Additionally, the upcoming T20 World Cup will witness India facing Pakistan in the group stage in New York next month.
Anticipating the Indian team’s potential visit to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy, various factors, including diplomatic and security considerations, undergo a thorough examination. Given the historical context and prevailing security apprehensions, any decision regarding India’s participation in a neighbouring country’s tournament will be approached with caution, following consultations with relevant authorities.
Echoing this sentiment, BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla emphasized the importance of adhering to the directives of the Indian government. “As far as the Champions Trophy is concerned, we will comply with the directives of the Indian government,” Shukla affirmed. “Our team will embark on the tour only upon receiving the government’s approval. We will proceed in accordance with the decisions of the Government of India.”
Notably, ahead of last year’s ODI World Cup, the Asia Cup was slated to be hosted in Pakistan. However, citing security concerns, the Indian team declined to travel to Pakistan, prompting the tournament’s restructuring under a hybrid model. India’s matches were relocated to Sri Lanka, while Pakistan hosted matches involving other participating teams. Subsequently, Pakistan toured India for the ODI World Cup. Despite Pakistan Cricket Board’s threats to boycott the India tour if India didn’t reciprocate by participating in the Asia Cup, the board’s efforts to garner international support were unsuccessful. Pakistan’s victory over India in the 2017 Champions Trophy remains a notable highlight in their cricket history.
