Asian Mail
The Indian cricket team’s participation in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to take place in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9, hangs in the balance. BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla has reiterated that the final decision rests with the Indian government.
Shukla emphasized that the BCCI seeks government permission for international tours, and the government’s decision will be binding. “No decision has been taken yet… whatever the government decides, we will abide by that” .
India’s concerns stem from strained relations with Pakistan, following the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. The team has not traveled to Pakistan for bilateral cricket since then.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) opposes relocating the tournament, while the ICC maintains it won’t force member boards to defy government policies.
The uncertainty surrounding India’s participation casts a shadow over the Champions Trophy, with Pakistan set to host the event as defending champions.
(Courtesy India today)