PCB Demands Written Letter From BCCI (Source: BCCI, @harris00071/X)
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is yet to step back regarding India's idea of playing Champions Trophy 2025 matches outside Pakistan. According to the Indian Express and many other reputed media outlets, the board wants a written explanation from BCCI for why exactly they don't want to travel to Pakistan.
Pakistan Not Ready To Surrender To India For Champions Trophy 2025
Earlier, the BCCI informed the International Cricket Council (ICC) that they don't want to cross the border during the showpiece event next year. Instead, they reportedly suggested to keep India's matches in Dubai, among other potential venues. However, the Pakistan government, in particular more than the PCB, is not ready to accept the proposal. Hence, they have gone to the ICC, and sought clarification.
“We have been told by our government not to move any game out of Pakistan, and that will be our stand when the time comes. Right now, the ICC has just informed us about India’s decision. We have the hosting rights for the Champions Trophy so there is no way we can move the games outside Pakistan,” a PCB official was quoted as saying by Indian Express.
“We have responded to last week’s ICC letter, seeking clarifications for the BCCI’s decision not to travel to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. In reply, we have sent them a questionnaire asking them the reasons for the BCCI’s decision. We are keen to know that. So right now, there is no talk of moving games,” he added.
When Will Champions Trophy 2025 Begin?
The Champions Trophy 2025, a tournament featuring eight top cricket teams in the world, is scheduled to begin on February 19. It will end on March 9, with Rawalpindi, Lahore and Karachi slated to host all matches of the tournament.It is important to note that Pakistan last hosted an ICC event way back in 1996, which was a 50-over World Cup. Hence, the significance of this edition's Champions Trophy is massive for them. Now it will be interesting to see whether India would like to ease out their stance on this event or otherwise.