India Opts Out of 2025 ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan

India has informed the International Cricket Council (ICC) that its team will not travel to Pakistan for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) reports. This decision reflects ongoing political tensions between the two countries which have not played outside major men’s tournaments since 2013 with India avoiding a Pakistan visit for the past 16 years.

Pakistan plans to host the Champions Trophy for the first time since 1996 scheduling the eight-team, 50-over tournament for February and March 2025. The PCB has confirmed that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially notified the ICC of India’s refusal to travel. In response, the PCB has forwarded the ICC’s email to the Pakistani government for further guidance.

The ICC has not yet issued a direct response but is currently consulting with Pakistan and other participating nations about the schedule. Discussions have included a “hybrid” model where India could play its matches at a neutral venue such as the UAE, similar to last year’s Asia Cup. However, this approach raises concerns about where the knockout matches would be held if India advances to the semi-finals.

The PCB has rejected the hybrid model, emphasizing its desire to hold all matches within Pakistan. Despite traveling to India for the 2023 World Cup and the 2016 T20 World Cup, Pakistan remains part of a politically charged rivalry with India. Richard Gould from the England and Wales Cricket Board stressed the importance of including both India and Pakistan in the tournament, noting the significant impact on broadcast rights if either nation withdraws.

Cricket officials contend that, despite historical tensions, the Champions Trophy provides a valuable chance for both countries to support the sport’s growth and foster international competition.