Will India Play ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan?

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Original Content: Will India Play ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan?

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to be hosted by Pakistan, throws a question mark over India’s participation due to the longstanding political tensions between the two cricketing nations.

While Pakistan holds the hosting rights and desires India’s presence in the prestigious tournament, the possibility of the Men in Blue team visiting the neighbouring county looks slim.

India’s last bilateral series in Pakistan was in 2008, with Pakistan’s most recent visit to India occurring in 2023 for the World Cup. Currently, both teams only meet during ICC tournaments.

PCB’s Proposal for India

The PCB has proposed innovative solutions to convince India. One idea involves playing all of India’s matches at a single venue, potentially Lahore, to minimize travel and security concerns.

Additionally, three cities – Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Lahore – have been shortlisted as potential hosts, with Lahore currently the frontrunner for India’s exclusive matches.

Despite the PCB’s efforts, the chances of India playing in Pakistan remain low. A hybrid model, similar to the Asia Cup 2023 where India’s matches were held in neutral venues, appears more likely.