India is unlikely to travel to Pakistan for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

The highly anticipated Champions Trophy, set to return to the cricketing calendar in February-March 2025, might face a major hurdle. According to BCCI reports, India's participation in Pakistan, the designated host nation, is highly unlikely due to travel restrictions. The news comes as a disappointment for Pakistan, who earned the hosting rights for the Champions Trophy. They were eager to showcase their cricketing talent and infrastructure on the international stage, especially after a long absence of major tournaments. Pakistan even submitted a draft schedule featuring all of India's matches in Lahore, including the highly anticipated clash between the arch-rivals scheduled for March 1st. However, the BCCI has yet to confirm their travel plans. With India's participation in Pakistan uncertain, a "hybrid model" is being explored. This would see India play their matches in a neutral venue, possibly the UAE or Sri Lanka. This approach mirrors the Asia Cup 2023, where India's matches were held outside Pakistan.The draft schedule submitted by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) included all of India's matches in Lahore, highlighting the potential travel concerns from the BCCI's perspective. The final decision rests with the ICC. They will need to consider the BCCI's concerns and work out a feasible solution that ensures India's participation while respecting Pakistan's hosting rights.