‘No Champions Trophy without India’ – Aakash Chopra backs BCCI’s stance of not touring Pakistan

On Sunday it was formally confirmed that India isn’t ready to tour Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025 tournament. Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra said that the tournament cannot take place without India. The men in blue last toured Pakistan in 2008 for the Asia Cup before political tensions arose later that year. 

Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube channel “Yes, this is an ICC event. Broadcasters have committed money for the event. But there is always a rider that if ICC cannot ensure India’s participation, then the broadcasters will not invest or there will be financial re-evaluation. If India does not participate the money falls drastically”

It was reported that Pakistan is looking to pursue legal action against BCCI. The Men in Green have also stated that they will pull out of the tournament if India doesn’t come. Even England's cricket board have stated that the tournament will hold no appeal if India doesn’t tour Pakistan. 

Aakash Chopra backs India’s stand of not touring Pakistan

Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra speaking on his YouTube channel said  “The last PCB board chief during the 2023 ODI World Cup said ‘Dushman mulk jaa rahe hai hum’. In future, if Pakistan decides not to play against India, there will be repercussions. India will also face repercussions if they don’t visit Pakistan”

Aakash Chopra also said “The sanctions will be financial and how can ICC stop India's money going to India? Pakistan don’t have that leverage, that is the hard reality. I feel it is absolutely certain there will be no Champions Trophy without India. Every team, including Pakistan, understand this”

The 47-year-old further said “PCB knows the reality that if the Indian government has decided not to give permission to their team to travel to Pakistan, then the team cannot come and the Champions Trophy without India won't be possible. It is the reality, in all likelihood, India matches will be played in UAE”

Meanwhile, former Indian star Dinesh Karthik has urged BCCI to pick Varun Chakravarthy for the Champions Trophy tournament. The 39-year-old wrote “If India don’t pick VARUN CHAKRAVARTHY for the Champions Trophy, then they are making a grave error. Outstanding Bowler he is turning out to be.”