Pakistan Adamant On Hosting Champions Trophy 2025; PCB Says No To Plan B
Rohit Sharma and Babar Azam in T20 World Cup 2024 (X.com)
Pakistan are scheduled to host Champions Trophy 2025 in February, but there are still clouds of uncertainty over India's readiness to travel to their neighbouring country. PCB though have reaffirmed that there is no plan of following a hybrid model or taking Champions Trophy out of the country, and the tournament will be fully held in Pakistan.
In a recent PCB governing body meeting in Lahore, the officials have confirmed that there is 'No Plan B' this time around like it was during the Asia Cup 2023 when India refused to travel to Pakistan. They also accepted that India's participation is subject to the approval from their government but added that there are some positive signs in that direction, and Indian team might finally travel to Pakistan after the gap of 18 years.
According to the reports, all India matches are scheduled to be held in Lahore with tournament kicking off on February 19 with Pakistan taking on New Zealand. India is placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, New Zealand and Bangladesh while Group B comprises of England, South Africa, Australia and Afghanistan.
So, with preparations in full swing in Pakistan, they would be hoping that Indian government approves India's participation, and the fans get to see the blockbuster India-Pakistan game in Lahore which is most likely to be played on March 1.