Former Pakistan captain Zaheer Abbas has urged India to travel to Pakistan for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025. However, the Indian team is hesitant, citing safety concerns for players in Pakistan during this important tournament.
Zaheer Abbas warned that if India decides not to participate, it could negatively impact the spirit of international cricket. He emphasised that the rivalry between India and Pakistan is one of the most exciting in sports, attracting fans from around the world whenever they play against each other.
Abbas expressed concern that the Champions Trophy 2025 might lack excitement without India’s involvement, noting that nothing generates more interest than an India vs Pakistan match. Due to tense diplomatic relations, the two teams typically only meet in multi-nation tournaments.
Despite India’s reluctance, Pakistan did travel to India for the ICC ODI World Cup 2023, while India did not go to Pakistan for the Asia Cup last year. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had to host the tournament using a hybrid model, with Sri Lanka holding India’s matches.
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BCCI Vice President Rajiv Shukla recently confirmed that no decision has been made about sending the Indian team to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025. He stated that the BCCI always seeks government approval for international tours and will follow the government’s guidance. Shukla added that the ICC has not imposed any deadline on the BCCI regarding this decision.