BCCI gets its way as India gives cold shoulder to Pakistan for Champions Trophy 2025: Reports

According to reports doing the rounds, it is more or less confirmed that the Indian cricket team will not tour Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025. It was expected that the Men in Blue would travel across the border for the tournament. However, reports suggest that India’s matches will take place in Dubai. 

Lahore was supposed to be the venue for India’s games against Bangladesh, New Zealand, and Pakistan. All four teams were placed in Group A, while the other matches in the group were to be held in Karachi, and Rawalpindi. There were also proposals by PCB regarding India flying back home after their matches. 

One source, while speaking to the Indian Express, said, “This has been our stance and there is no reason to change that. We have written to them and asked them to shift our games to Dubai.” 

Yet another source, while speaking to the Times of India, said, “There are no issues in Dubai. Hotels aren’t a problem, logistics are not a problem, and everything can be handled smoothly. And ICC does have things in control when it comes to Dubai.”

BCCI raises concerns over touring Pakistan 

Pakistan cricket fans may not get to witness Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli wearing the blues in their backyard. One source in the know said to the Times of India, “Yes, the BCCI has conveyed their concerns regarding Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan. They want to play matches at a neutral venue and Dubai is the strong candidate to host the fixtures involving the Men in Blue.”

Meanwhile, former Pakistan player Basit Ali jumped the gun and said that it was 70% confirmed India is touring Pakistan. Pakistan’s former batter said on his YouTube Channel, “Lahore walo, India ki mehman-nawazi ke liye taiyar ho jao. Like the way they did in India, be big-hearted as hosts."

The former batter also said, “It's 70% confirmed, BCCI ki baat ho gayi hai It's in the hands of the Prime Minister of India now, whether he says yes or no, in which case a hybrid model will be adopted. But 70% confirmed that we will host India in Lahore. On November 11, the schedule for the Champions Trophy will be announced."

“Our public, who love Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah, will see them from up close. If their players play well, do appreciate them. In case they don't, do not misbehave. Respect your guests," further added Basit Ali.