Will India play ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan?

Champions Trophy 2025 has been facing some struggles in recent times, as many things are happening. Initially, it was all settled, as Pakistan was set to host the Champions Trophy, and they still have the official rights. However, the chances look slim that they will get the full hosting rights, as we are seeing inclination toward a hybrid model where a few matches, or possibly only India’s matches, may be played outside Pakistan. When PCB got the official rights three years ago, many people knew this would happen and now, we are seeing the same outcome, India is not going to Pakistan to play the Champions Trophy 2025.

Why is India not going to Pakistan for Champions Trophy?

The reason why India is not traveling to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy is due to security concerns, as it has clearly emerged that the Indian government has not given permission to the BCCI to send the Indian team for the Champions Trophy. One thing that is coming into the limelight is that the Champions Trophy may see a hybrid setup, where a few matches will be held outside Pakistan. If this happens, as tournament matches are shifted to another venue, and the PCB agrees, we can expect the same venue rental solution, which could bring financial losses to the PCB. This is one of the reasons why they are not agreeing to the hybrid model.

What if India doesn’t play Champions Trophy?

If India decides to withdraw from the Champions Trophy 2025, the ICC would need to include another team, as the tournament requires eight teams to participate. According to the ICC rankings, Sri Lanka would replace India if the Men in Blue choose not to participate.