The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has dismissed reports suggesting that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) proposed a plan to facilitate India’s travel back to Chandigarh or Delhi after each match during the Champions Trophy 2025.
Champions Trophy 2025 Set for Pakistan
The tournament is scheduled to be held across three venues—Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi—between February 19 and March 9, 2025. According to a Cricbuzz report, Pakistan allegedly offered to assist India with post-match travel due to uncertainty regarding India’s willingness to remain in Pakistan throughout the tournament.
BCCI Denies Receiving Travel Proposal
However, a report from Dainik Jagran cited a BCCI official who refuted these claims, stating that no such proposal had been received from the PCB. The official also clarified that, even if an offer were made, the BCCI would reject it. The board reiterated its long-standing position that any decision about India’s participation in Pakistan depends on the Government of India.
India’s Scheduled Matches in Pakistan
India is slated to play all its Champions Trophy matches in Lahore, with an additional game likely in Rawalpindi. The fixtures are set for February 20, 23, and March 2, 2025. Despite uncertainty over India’s travel plans, no official decision has been made regarding participation. Speculation has also arisen over whether the International Cricket Council (ICC) might adopt a hybrid model for the tournament, as seen in previous events.
Historical Context and Ongoing Preparations
India last toured Pakistan in 2008 for the Asia Cup, but political tensions have since halted bilateral cricket ties, with the two teams only facing each other during ICC events. Meanwhile, the PCB remains committed to hosting the tournament as planned and continues its preparations. Hopes for improved diplomatic relations were sparked recently when India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, visited Pakistan for the 2024 SCO summit.
