Dubai: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is pressing the International Cricket Council (ICC) for clarification following India’s decision to skip the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan, citing security concerns and government advice, a PCB spokesperson confirmed to Reuters on Tuesday.
India, which hasn’t played in Pakistan since 2008 due to ongoing political tensions, continues to limit encounters with its neighbor to neutral grounds in global tournaments. In last year’s Asia Cup, hosted by Pakistan, India played its matches in Sri Lanka through a “hybrid model” arrangement. However, the PCB has rejected implementing a similar arrangement for the Champions Trophy, scheduled from February 19 to March 9, 2025, despite the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) adhering to its decision against sending the team to Pakistan.
“The PCB has sent a letter to the ICC seeking clarification,” stated a PCB spokesperson, adding that they are awaiting guidance from the Pakistan government before planning further actions.
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According to the spokesperson, the ICC had informed the PCB via email that the BCCI had formally declared its team’s unwillingness to travel to Pakistan. “The PCB has forwarded that email to the government of Pakistan for their advice and guidance,” the spokesperson explained.
ICC officials were unavailable for immediate comment on how the issue would be managed. However, the ICC is reportedly in discussions with the PCB and other cricket boards to finalize the tournament schedule. As India’s participation is critical for the tournament’s commercial success, the situation remains complex, with Pakistani media, including the Dawn newspaper, hinting that Pakistan may consider boycotting the event if it is relocated from its home ground.
