The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has finalized three cities to host the 2025 Champions Trophy, but uncertainties persist regarding the participation of the Indian team in the tournament on Pakistani soil.
Ever since Pakistan was granted hosting rights for the Champions Trophy, the prospect of the Indian team’s involvement has been a subject of debate. Despite the official confirmation of Pakistan as the host, whether the Indian team will make the trip remains unanswered. Recent reports suggest that India might opt out of participating in the tournament held in Pakistan.
Meanwhile, Pakistan has announced Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi as the designated cities to host the prestigious tournament. PCB President Mohsin Naqvi revealed this decision during a press conference in Lahore.
“We have submitted the match schedule for the Champions Trophy to be played in Pakistan,” stated Naqvi. “The ICC security team conducted an inspection, and we had productive discussions. They assessed the arrangements and received updates on stadium preparations. We maintain close communication with the ICC to ensure a successful tournament.”
In the 2023 Asia Cup, hosted by Pakistan, the Indian team did not travel to Pakistan and instead played their matches in Sri Lanka under a hybrid model. Given this precedent, it raises curiosity whether a similar arrangement will be made if the Indian team decides to participate in the Champions Trophy hosted by Pakistan.
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