(AFP Photo)
Pakistan is set to host the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, with matches scheduled to commence on February 19 in Karachi and culminate with the final on March 9 in Lahore. However, there’s significant uncertainty regarding India’s participation due to strained political relations between the two nations. Reports suggest that if India opts out of traveling to Pakistan, their matches may be relocated to Dubai.
In response to these developments, Pakistan has reportedly issued a stern stance. According to Geo News Urdu, Pakistan has threatened to boycott the 2026 T20 World Cup, slated to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, if India fails to participate in the 2025 Champions Trophy hosted by Pakistan.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) remains resolute in its decision to host all Champions Trophy matches within Pakistan. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi is expected to reinforce this position at the upcoming ICC meeting in Colombo from July 19 to 22.
Sources indicate that all participating teams except India have previously visited Pakistan for cricket events, casting doubt on India’s justification for non-participation. If India continues to decline participation, Pakistan may reciprocate by refusing to travel to India for the 2026 T20 World Cup.
Since July 2008, India has refrained from traveling to Pakistan for cricket tournaments. During this period, Pakistan has visited India once for a bilateral series in 2012-2013, and also participated in the T20 World Cup in 2016 and the ODI World Cup in 2023 hosted by India.
Last year, India was slated to participate in the Asia Cup 2023 in Pakistan. However, due to geopolitical tensions, India chose not to travel, prompting the relocation of their matches to Sri Lanka.
