The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has submitted its proposed schedule for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy to the International Cricket Council (ICC), with an ambitious plan to host all matches, including those featuring India, within Pakistan.
The ninth edition of the Champions Trophy, featuring the top eight ODI teams, is scheduled for February and March 2025. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed the submission of the schedule, expressing the board’s desire to host the entire tournament in Pakistan. “We want the complete Champions Trophy in Pakistan,” declared Naqvi. The ICC security team’s recent visit resulted in positive feedback on Pakistan’s facilities and security measures, including stadiums in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi.
However, India’s participation remains a significant hurdle due to strained political relations between the two countries. The BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) may consider alternative plans, including holding some matches outside of Pakistan or changing the venue entirely if India cannot participate under the proposed schedule.
PCB remains optimistic about hosting the Champions Trophy in Pakistan despite BCCi’s objection
Despite these challenges, the PCB remains optimistic about hosting the Champions Trophy entirely within Pakistan, demonstrating its commitment to a successful event. Cricket fans around the world will be watching closely to see if the Champions Trophy returns to Pakistan after a long absence.
Despite BCCI’s uncertainty of playing in Pakistan, PCB sends Champions Trophy schedule to ICC.#ChampionsTrophy #CricketTwitterhttps://t.co/TnpPqzbwxS
— InsideSport (@InsideSportIND) April 29, 2024
The last time the Indian cricket team traveled to Pakistan was in 2008 for the Asia Cup. Since then, bilateral cricketing ties between the two nations have been scarce due to political factors and conflicts. Despite the intense sporting rivalry, cricket fans eagerly await the day when India and Pakistan can once again face off on the cricket field.
It will be a big step forward for both countries as they move towards a better relationship with each other. If this scenario materializes it will be a day to remember as these two countries with so much hatred among them leave all of their conflicts behind and head towards a better future where rivalry is limited to the Cricket field only.
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