Team India and Pakistan, arguably the two most-followed teams in the global cricketing spectrum, are reportedly scheduled to take on each other at the 2025 Champions Trophy in Lahore. The tournament’s draft schedule has been sent to the International Cricket Council (ICC), suggesting the 50-over event will be held between February 19 and March 9.
The Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore will host the marquee India vs Pakistan game in the Champions Trophy 2025, as well as the grand finale. Interestingly, the draft schedule has Team India based in and playing all their matches in Lahore, where the final is also scheduled to take place.
This decision aims to avoid logistical and security challenges around travel and provides Indian fans with a relatively easier option to visit, given Lahore’s proximity to the Wagah border crossing between the two countries.
Will The Indian Government Allow Team India To Play in Pakistan?
India and Pakistan have only faced each other in ICC events in recent years. Since the return of international cricket to Pakistan in 2015, every team involved in the Champions Trophy has toured and played in Pakistan, except Team India.
The last time an Indian team played in Pakistan was during the 2008 Asia Cup. Relations between the two governments have been strained since then, especially after the Mumbai terror attacks in the same year.
However, the final decision on whether India will visit Pakistan for the Champions Trophy lies with the Indian government, rather than the BCCI. The craze around India vs Pakistan games, limited as they are, is to be seen to be believed. Let’s hope for an exciting clash in Lahore during the 2025 Champions Trophy.
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