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The upcoming ninth edition of the Champions Trophy, set to take place in Pakistan from February to March 2025, is a highly anticipated event in the cricket community. However, it has sparked significant debate, particularly regarding India‘s participation. Reports indicate that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has expressed concerns over security, leading to requests for either relocating the tournament or scheduling India’s matches at a neutral venue.
Former Pakistan cricketer Saqlain Mushtaq recently weighed in on the issue, downplaying the significance of India’s potential absence.
Saqlain Mushtaq shares his thoughts on India’s potential absence
Mushtaq said we should not make a fuss about it as it does not matter whether they participate. “If India wants to come, they can. If they do not want to come, it does not matter; there is no point making a fuss about it. This will not make the event either good or bad,” as quoted by Cricket Pakistan
Mushtaq emphasized that the matter should be handled by the International Cricket Council (ICC). “This is an ICC event. They will look into this matter as they should,” he added.
Also READ: Saqlain Mushtaq opens up on the criticism around Pakistan skipper Babar Azam’s leadership
ICC greenlights substantial budget for the 2025 Champions Trophy
The tournament’s financial aspects are also noteworthy. The budget for the Champions Trophy 2025 has been a result of a collaborative effort between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the ICC Finance Department. The allocated funding stands at USD 70 million, which amounts to approximately INR 5,721,800,000. This budget underscores the scale and importance of the event, which is scheduled to run from February 21 to March 9, 2025.
