With the recent conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2024, attention has now shifted to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to take place in Pakistan from February to March next year. The tournament, which has been on hiatus for eight years, is facing uncertainties about Team India’s participation due to strained political relations between India and Pakistan.
Reports had suggested that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) would not permit the Indian team to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. Instead, a proposed hybrid model was discussed, which would see India’s matches being played in Dubai or Sri Lanka, similar to the format used for the Asia Cup 2023. The Asia Cup, originally planned to be hosted solely in Pakistan, was split between Pakistan and Sri Lanka due to India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan.
However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has insisted that the Champions Trophy 2025 be held entirely within Pakistan’s borders. They have stated that if India cannot participate, they will be excluded from the tournament, and Sri Lanka could potentially replace them as the eighth team.
In light of these reports, BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla has provided a crucial update. Shukla has denied any official statement from the BCCI suggesting that India would not participate in the Champions Trophy. He emphasized that the decision regarding India’s participation would ultimately depend on the Indian government’s approval.
“We do not know which source gave such information. BCCI has not put out any official information regarding this,” Shukla told The Print.
The situation remains fluid, with the final decision hinging on government clearance. As preparations for the Champions Trophy continue, the cricketing world eagerly awaits a definitive answer regarding India’s participation in this significant tournament.
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