The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken a firm stance, demanding a clear “yes or no” from the BCCI on India’s participation in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, scheduled to be held in Pakistan.
Salman Naseer, Chief Operating Officer of the PCB, has engaged in intensive discussions with ICC officials in Dubai, with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi also joining earlier, to finalize details for the tournament’s schedule.
The ICC typically announces tournament schedules three months in advance, with the Champions Trophy schedule expected to be revealed in Pakistan between November 10 and 12.
Lahore is set to host India’s matches, contingent on their participation, yet the BCCI has not provided a clear response to the PCB. India’s involvement depends on government approval, which has historically refrained from providing written clearances for tours to Pakistan. In light of this ongoing uncertainty, the PCB has urged the BCCI to secure formal government approval.
If no official confirmation is received, the ICC intends to proceed with the schedule release, including India’s fixtures in Lahore. Should India ultimately withdraw, a contingency plan is ready, involving budget adjustments, though specifics remain undisclosed.
The Champions Trophy is scheduled to begin on February 19, 2025, with Pakistan facing New Zealand in Karachi.