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The ICC Champions Trophy 2025, is set to take place in Pakistan. However, due to ongoing concerns about India‘s willingness to travel to Pakistan, fans could see the tournament in hybrid mode. Notably, the bilateral cricket between the two countries has been suspended since 2013. But, Pakistan’s recent visit to India for the 2023 ODI World Cup has reignited talks about a possible reciprocal tour. Early reports suggest that India’s matches could be held in Lahore, near the border, if the tour proceeds.
India’s stance on next year’s Champions Trophy
There have been widespread reports recently that the BCCI is hesitant to send the team to Pakistan. They are considering a hybrid model similar to the one used for last year’s Asia Cup. Under this proposal, some matches would be hosted in Pakistan, while all India’s games would be played at neutral venues. News agency PTI reports that the ICC has approved a budget of around USD 70 million for hosting the Champions Trophy in Pakistan next year. The ICC’s financial and commercial committee reviewed and approved the budget, chaired by Jay Shah, the BCCI secretary. The Pakistan Cricket Board and the ICC finance department prepared and submitted it collaboratively.
“The approximate budget is around USD 70 million and only USD 4.5 million has been allocated as additional expenses,” a source told PTI.
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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has remained tight-lipped amid speculation about India’s position in the Champions Trophy. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has instructed his office and colleagues to refrain from making any statements regarding India’s decision.
“That is why in recent days there is no comments or statement coming from either Naqvi or any other board official on what will happen if India doesn’t send its team to Pakistan,” one PCB insider said.
India and Pakistan may clash thrice in the tournament
It is also reported that India and Pakistan will be placed in the same group for the Champions Trophy, as has been the case in recent ICC tournaments. Apart from facing each other in the league stage, the two teams are expected to lock horns in the group stage and could potentially meet in the final, where they might clash again.
