How Sri Lanka Can Replace India in Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan: Explained

Pakistan is set to host the Champions Trophy 2025. But India tried to checkmate their arch-rivals by refusing to send their players to the neighbouring country. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is known to have proposed a hybrid model of hosting just like Asia Cup 2023, but the ICC is unlikely to approve the request this time. 

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) scheduled all India matches at one venue in Lahore to avoid travelling to multiple states. Reports suggest that India has made its stand clear and is planning to request the ICC to hold its matches in Sri Lanka or Dubai. 

Meanwhile, Pakistan is not ready to give in to BCCI's threat this time and they may get ICC's support to choose another country instead of India for the marquee event.

Who will replace India in the Champions Trophy 2025? 

If the ICC rejects the BCCI's proposal for a hybrid model, the latter will have two options: Either let their players go to Pakistan or withdraw from the tournament. If there comes a situation where the Men in Blue are not part of the Champions Trophy, then Sri Lanka will get a qualifying ticket for the marquee event.  

The Lankan Lions failed to qualify for the tournament due to their poor ranking on the cut-off date. Only eight teams could qualify, including hosts Pakistan, and Sri Lanka were ranked below Bangladesh. However, If India decides to withdraw its participation, Sri Lanka can participate in the event.

How can India compel ICC for a hybrid model?

India's withdrawal from the Champions Trophy will seriously affect the brand value of the showpiece event. Top players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah are expected to be a part of the tournament. The absence of an international giant is likely to affect the revenue side.

Also Read: 'He will forget the...' - Former Pakistan player Shahid Afridi's big statement on Virat Kohli ahead of Champions Trophy 2025

In this scenario, the ICC will have to consider BCCI's request and convince Pakistan to agree to have a hybrid model. However, it remains to be seen if the PCB will agree to this. It is noteworthy that the last Asia Cup was also forced to change similarly. However, the final decision regarding India's participation will be taken by the Government of India.