The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has rejected a proposal from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) regarding facilitating India’s return to Chandigarh or Delhi after each match during the Champions Trophy 2025. The tournament is set to take place from February 19 to March 9, 2025, across three venues: Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi.
According to a report by Cricbuzz, the PCB offered assistance in arranging flights for the Indian team after each game due to uncertainty about their willingness to remain in Pakistan throughout the tournament. However, a BCCI official, cited by Dainik Jagran, denied that any such proposal had been received, emphasizing that even if it were presented, the board would decline it.
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The BCCI reiterated that the decision regarding India’s participation in the Champions Trophy rests solely with the Government of India. India’s matches are expected to be played primarily in Lahore, with one additional match likely taking place in Rawalpindi on February 20, 23, and March 2, 2025.
Although discussions about improved diplomatic relations arose following Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s recent visit to Pakistan for the 2024 SCO summit, there were no specific talks regarding cricket or India’s potential participation. The PCB remains committed to hosting the tournament as planned and continues its preparations amidst these uncertainties.
