The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has formally communicated to the International Cricket Council (ICC) that India will not be traveling to Pakistan for the much-anticipated 2025 Champions Trophy. Sources from ESPNcricinfo reveal that the BCCI based its decision on recommendations from the Indian government, indicating growing geopolitical tensions influencing sports. The Champions Trophy, set to unfold across three venues in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9, now faces uncertainties that compel the ICC and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to explore contingency measures. This may involve a hybrid model, which would necessitate teams to alternate between Pakistan and another host nation, a plan made increasingly complex by recent political developments.
However, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi ruled out the practicality of a hybrid model just days ago, stating that no discussions regarding this option had occurred. Despite his firm stance, ESPNcricinfo has learned that various contingency frameworks were prepared several months prior to address potential scenarios such as the adopted hybrid model. Among the countries under consideration, the United Arab Emirates appears to be the top contender due to its geographical closeness to Pakistan, with Sri Lanka also featuring prominently on the shortlist.
Earlier this week, the ICC received BCCI’s official position, although it remains unclear whether this communication was delivered verbally or in writing. The ICC is likely awaiting a formal written notice before engaging further with the PCB. Naqvi emphasized on Friday the necessity for the PCB to obtain any objections from the BCCI in writing. Following this, he stated, he would require a thorough discussion with the Pakistani government before reaching any conclusive decisions regarding the tournament.
ESPNcricinfo has been actively seeking updates from the ICC, the PCB, and the BCCI regarding these unfolding developments in anticipation of both governance and operational challenges.
Naqvi’s comments on Friday were notably more categorical than his previous remarks, underscoring that the PCB would not acquiesce to a hybrid model. He invoked the significant gestures made by the PCB in the past, particularly the team’s agreement to travel to India for the ODI World Cup in 2023, despite India’s reluctance to visit Pakistan for the preceding Asia Cup. That particular tournament had ultimately adopted a hybrid format, with its latter stages hosted in Sri Lanka. He made it clear that any future travel arrangements for Pakistan to India would hinge on a governmental decision rather than unilateral agreement.
The Champions Trophy is set to showcase eight teams divided into two groups of four, culminating in semi-finals and a final. The expected competing nations include Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, and South Africa. As November 11 approaches, marking the 100-day countdown to the tournament, essential logistical details such as scheduling and ticketing have yet to be disclosed. Furthermore, ESPNcricinfo has been informed that an event scheduled next week in Lahore to announce the tournament’s schedule is likely to be postponed due to the prevailing situation.
Political tensions between India and Pakistan have prevented India from visiting Pakistan since the 2008 Asia Cup, despite Pakistan’s participation in several ICC events hosted by India, including the recent 2023 World Cup. The two countries have been able to conduct only one bilateral series since then, which was a short white-ball tour Pakistan made back in 2012-13.
Additional reporting by Osman Samiuddin
**Interview with Mohsin Naqvi, Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Naqvi. Recently, reports have indicated that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has formally communicated to the ICC that India will not be traveling to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy. How do you respond to this news?
**Mohsin Naqvi:** Thank you for having me. It’s indeed disappointing to hear that India has decided against playing in Pakistan, particularly given the significance of the Champions Trophy for our cricketing community and fans.
**Interviewer:** The decision was reportedly based on recommendations from the Indian government, reflecting geopolitical tensions. How do you perceive the impact of these tensions on cricket?
**Mohsin Naqvi:** It’s unfortunate that politics often overshadows sports. Cricket should be a unifying force, but external factors can complicate matters. We had hoped for a collaborative spirit where cricket could transcend beyond borders.
**Interviewer:** There have been mentions of exploring contingency plans, including a possible hybrid model. You recently ruled out this option. Can you elaborate on your position?
**Mohsin Naqvi:** Certainly. While we acknowledge the complexities involved, we believe that a hybrid model is impractical without proper discussions and arrangements. No discussions regarding this option have occurred, and therefore, we must focus on solutions that are viable and beneficial for all parties involved.
**Interviewer:** If a hybrid model isn’t feasible, what are the PCB’s next steps regarding the tournament? Are you considering alternative host countries?
**Mohsin Naqvi:** Yes, we have been preparing various contingency frameworks for a while now. We view the UAE as a strong candidate due to its proximity, and Sri Lanka is also under consideration. However, any decision will require careful deliberation with the government and the ICC.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, what message would you like to convey to cricket fans in Pakistan who are eager to host the Champions Trophy?
**Mohsin Naqvi:** To our fans, I want to assure you that we are working diligently to bring international cricket back to Pakistan. We understand your excitement and passion for the game, and we remain committed to finding a resolution that allows us to host this monumental event in our homeland.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Mr. Naqvi, for sharing your insights and addressing these crucial matters with us. We hope for a positive outcome for the Champions Trophy 2025.
**Mohsin Naqvi:** Thank you for having me. We all hope for a bright future for cricket in Pakistan.
