The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been informed by the International Cricket Council (ICC) about India’s decision not to participate in the Champions Trophy 2025, which is set to be hosted in Pakistan.
Sources close to the matter indicate that this communication from the ICC has triggered a series of deliberations within the Pakistan government.
Government sources suggest that the Pakistani leadership is considering strong retaliatory measures in response to India’s refusal to send their cricket team to Pakistan.
One of the key considerations is that Pakistan will not play any future cricket matches with India until bilateral relations improve.
This includes all major tournaments, and it is being seen as a significant diplomatic response to India’s reluctance to engage in sports diplomacy.
READ: No hybrid model will be considered for Champions Trophy 2025: Govt sources
Officials stressed that Pakistan has made extensive preparations to host the event, with new stadiums being constructed and heightened security measures in place to ensure the safety of all participants.
According to government sources, India’s refusal to come to Pakistan is without justifiable cause, as the conditions for hosting the tournament are ready.
While acknowledging that Pakistan would lose revenue if India withdraws, the government maintains that India would also face consequences by not participating in the tournament.
Pakistan is firm in its resolve to not back down on hosting the Champions Trophy 2025 and has warned that failure to comply could escalate tensions to a “dangerous level.”
