The Champions Trophy cricket tournament scheduled for 2025 faces uncertainty due to India’s reluctance to travel to Pakistan. The tournament, set to return after 2017, may adopt a hybrid model in February-March. Pakistan, the host, planned matches in Lahore, including a big game with India on March 1, but India’s participation remains uncertain.
There’s no official confirmation from India’s cricket board (BCCI) on travel plans. A source suggested a hybrid model, possibly in UAE or Sri Lanka, similar to how the Asia Cup was handled. The PCB submitted a draft schedule to ICC, aiming to hold the entire tournament in Pakistan, pending government decisions.
India hasn’t played bilateral cricket with Pakistan since 2012-13 and hasn’t visited since 2008. Former Sports Minister Anurag Thakur linked resumption of ties to Pakistan ending cross-border terrorism.
Last year, India refused to play in Pakistan, leading to the Asia Cup being split across Sri Lanka and India. The ICC and PCB are discussing the issue further. Pakistan Cricket Board has invested heavily in upgrading stadiums for the event, aiming to restore their cricketing reputation after recent disappointments.
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