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India‘s decision not to travel to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has been a major point of contention, upsetting the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and frustrating cricket fans across the border. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has maintained a firm stance, stating that any decision regarding cricketing ties with Pakistan rests with the Indian government.
BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla, who recently visited Pakistan at the invitation of PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, addressed these concerns while attending the Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final between New Zealand and South Africa at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
India and Pakistan to play bilateral series?
During his media interaction, Shukla dismissed the idea of organizing an India-Pakistan series at a neutral venue, reinforcing the long-standing position of both cricket boards.
“Cricket fans are eager for this rivalry, but as a matter of principle, both BCCI and PCB have always advocated for bilateral series to be held on home grounds. This policy remains unchanged, and we will see what unfolds in the future,” Shukla remarked.
While fans from both nations yearn for the resumption of bilateral series, the strained political relations between the two countries remain a roadblock. The last bilateral series between India and Pakistan took place in 2012-13, and since then, the teams have only met in ICC tournaments and Asia Cup competitions.
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India’s Champions Trophy matches in Dubai not an advantage
Shukla also addressed criticism regarding India playing all their Champions Trophy 2025 matches in Dubai, with some quarters suggesting it gives the team an undue advantage. He clarified that the International Cricket Council (ICC) had made this decision well in advance and not at the behest of BCCI.
“There is no issue of fairness or unfairness here. The Indian team does not rely on any particular pitch conditions. Even in Dubai, they play on various surfaces and adjust their game accordingly,” he asserted.
