India has declined to play any Champions Trophy games in the country: In light of ongoing uncertainty regarding the Indian Cricket Team’s participation in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, there are growing speculations that Pakistan might step back from hosting the tournament. According to sources, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has informed the International Cricket Council (ICC) that India will not travel to Pakistan and would prefer to play its matches at a neutral venue, potentially in the UAE.
The Champions Trophy is set to take place in February 2025, but discussions are already underway about a possible venue change. Reports suggest that if Pakistan is unable to accommodate India's preference, the tournament might be shifted entirely.
An official involved in the deliberations stated that Pakistan’s government is taking the matter seriously, even considering the option of asking the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to withdraw from the tournament if hosting under such terms is not feasible.
In recent updates, the ICC reportedly asked the PCB to confirm if they are open to hosting the tournament in a hybrid model, which would allow India’s matches to be held in the UAE. Sources indicate that India has agreed to this model, provided the tournament final also takes place in Dubai instead of Pakistan.
The PCB, consulting with its legal team, is preparing an email seeking clarification from the ICC on the implications of India’s stance. Sources hinted at potential legal challenges the ICC could face from its commercial partners if Pakistan takes a firm stance on hosting rights. This could affect agreements with broadcasters and sponsors, who expect all major cricket-playing nations to participate as promised.
Mohsin Naqvi, a senior official with the PCB, previously expressed Pakistan’s concerns, suggesting that the Board might reconsider its accommodating gestures if India maintains its position. Since 2008, India and Pakistan have only competed in ICC tournaments due to ongoing political tensions.
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