A prominent sports website has reported that India’s cricket team will not be participating in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 scheduled to be held in Pakistan, while opted to hold their matches at a neutral venue.
As reported by ESPN Cricinfo, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has expressed concerns over hosting the Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan and has proposed a neutral venue, with Dubai emerging as a likely location for some matches.
“The BCCI prefers the matches to be played in Dubai due to logistical ease, as the city has previously hosted various cricket events, including the Women’s T20 World Cup,” as reported by ESPN.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) is reportedly well-prepared to manage the event in Dubai, citing favorable accommodation and transportation conditions.
However, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has stated that no official communication has been received from the BCCI, and they will address the issue once it is presented in writing.
The ICC Champions Trophy, a major international cricket event featuring the top eight-ranked teams, is set to take place in Pakistan in 2025, marking a significant occasion for the country’s cricket.
The tournament, often likened to the “Mini World Cup,” will be the first Champions Trophy hosted by Pakistan since 2008.