The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has formally requested a definitive response from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding India’s participation in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, which is scheduled to take place in Pakistan. The PCB is seeking a clear “yes or no” from the BCCI, as the decision hinges on the Indian government’s approval, which has yet to be granted.
PCB Chief Operating Officer Salman Naseer has held multiple discussions with the International Cricket Council (ICC) officials in Dubai, while PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has been involved in efforts to finalize the tournament schedule. The schedule is anticipated to be unveiled in Pakistan between November 10 and 12, with the event set to commence on February 19, 2025.
Also Read: Champions Trophy: PCB to Simplify Visa Process for Indian Fans
This will be Pakistan’s first time hosting an ICC event in over a decade. However, India’s participation remains uncertain due to the need for official government clearance for the tour. Despite previous instances where Indian authorities delayed formal confirmation, the PCB is pressing for a written response from the BCCI.
In the event that India declines to participate, sources suggest that the ICC has prepared a contingency plan, which may involve a revised budget, although specifics of the alternative arrangement have not yet been revealed. India’s matches, including one against Bangladesh, are provisionally scheduled for Lahore on February 20. The much-anticipated clash between Pakistan and India is tentatively set for March 1, also in Lahore.
Venue development in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi is advancing, with the PCB targeting December 30 for completion. A total of 13 billion rupees has been allocated for upgrading these venues, and an ICC delegation is expected to inspect the facilities soon.
