Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly contemplating withdrawing from Champions Trophy 2025 as India has not received government clearance to travel to Pakistan for marquee ICC tournament, RevSportz reported. PCB is also exploring legal action against BCCI, citing potential financial losses resulting from India's potential absence. The tournament is scheduled for February-March 2025.
Earlier today it was reported that ICC canceled a key pre-tournament event originally planned for November 11 in Lahore, which was intended to kick off the 100-day countdown to Champions Trophy.
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Reports indicate that ICC has conveyed to PCB, BCCI's stance on not playing Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan, instead suggesting a hybrid model with India's games at a neutral venue. In response, PCB is considering bringing the matter to ICC Dispute Resolution Committee, citing the substantial financial implications of India's possible withdrawal.
Pakistan has invested heavily in upgrading infrastructure across host cities—Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi—amplifying concerns about revenue losses if India opts out of playing in Pakistan.
Pakistan Cricket Board has repeatedly appealed to BCCI, providing assurances regarding security for Champions Trophy to encourage India's participation in Pakistan. However, India remains hesitant due to ongoing political tensions, a primary reason behind their refusal to play matches on Pakistani soil. Team India's last visit to Pakistan was for Asia Cup in 2008.
"If the Indian team eventually does not come here, then we would be required to go to our government. Then whatever they will decide, we will have to abide by that. For the past few years, Pakistan have been doing good gestures, but every time we are not obligated to make good gestures," PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi recently said during a media interaction.