India’s decision not to travel to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy next year could prompt a significant reaction from the Pakistani government, potentially leading to the national cricket team withdrawing from the tournament, according to a report in ‘Dawn’.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has reportedly informed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) of the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) decision that the Indian team will not participate in the tournament on Pakistani soil. The event is set to take place from February 19 to March 9, 2025.
The Champions Trophy, set to return to the ICC schedule for the first time since 2017, might adopt a ‘hybrid’ format, with India playing their matches at an alternative location, likely the UAE, while Pakistan hosts the remainder of the event.
However, the report indicates that PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has “ruled out the possibility” of such a hybrid model, which could force the ICC to consider relocating the entire tournament outside Pakistan. This scenario might lead to Pakistan withdrawing from the Champions Trophy altogether.
The report cites sources suggesting that the Pakistani government is contemplating instructing the PCB to pull out of the tournament if the ICC opts for such changes.
Naqvi, who also serves as the country’s interior minister, has emphasized Pakistan’s stance.
Despite not playing bilateral series since 2012, India and Pakistan have continued to meet in ICC events, including last year’s ODI World Cup in India. The Asia Cup hosted by Pakistan last year was similarly modified into a hybrid format after India declined to play there, resulting in their matches being held in Sri Lanka.