Ganesh Kendale
NEW DELHI: India has declined to participate in the Champions Trophy scheduled in Pakistan from February 19, 2024, according to the Pakistan Cricket Board’s announcement on Sunday. The neighbouring nations, who share strained diplomatic relations, have not engaged in bilateral cricket series for more than ten years, with India’s last visit to Pakistan being during the 2008 Asia Cup.
“The Pakistan Cricket Board has received an email from the ICC (International Cricket Council), stating that the Indian board has informed them that their team will not travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025,” PCB spokesman Sami Ul Hasan said.
“The PCB has forwarded that email to the government of Pakistan for their advice and guidance,” Hasan added.
The eight-nation tournament was planned across three Pakistani cities – Lahore, Rawalpindi and Karachi – with uncertainty surrounding the final schedule due to India’s pending confirmation.
Former cricketer Mohammad Hafeez voiced his concerns on social media: “It was a day dream that India will come to Pakistan to play #ChampionsTrophy2025. Pakistan is safe & ready to host the event. Pakistan hosting all cricket nations at home but somehow not secure for India. Waiting for strong & surprised response from government & PCB.”
Pakistan’s participation in the ODI World Cup in India last year had created expectations for reciprocal participation in the Champions Trophy.
The previous Asia Cup saw Pakistan implementing a hybrid model, with India playing their matches, including the final, in Sri Lanka.
Since their last bilateral series in 2012-13, both teams have only competed against each other in ICC multi-nation tournaments.
