Pakistan is gearing up to exclusively host the Champions Trophy for the first time in 2025. However, there is still uncertainty surrounding India’s participation in this significant tournament.
In the previous year, Pakistan visited India for the ODI World Cup. However, recent reports indicate that the BCCI is reluctant to send the Indian team on a reciprocal tour to Pakistan. This situation may lead to the Champions Trophy 2025 being hosted in a hybrid format, similar to the Asia Cup arrangement last year.
Originally, Pakistan was set to exclusively host the Asia Cup, but with India’s refusal to travel, Sri Lanka was brought in as a co-host, allowing India to play their matches on the island. If the Champions Trophy follows a hybrid model, some matches would be held in Pakistan, while India would play at neutral venues.
Cricket fans may have much to look forward to, as there is a high chance of India and Pakistan meeting three times in the ICC Champions Trophy. Reports suggest that the two rivals will likely be placed in the same group, leading to potential encounters in the group stage, the Super Fours, and, if both teams qualify, the final.
The tournament will feature eight teams, with India and Pakistan grouped in Group A alongside Bangladesh and New Zealand. Group B will include Afghanistan, Australia, England, and South Africa. The top two teams from each group will advance to the Super 4s, and the best two from the Super 4s will compete in the final.
Given that India and Pakistan are in the same group, they will face each other at least once during the group stage. If both teams progress to the Super 4s, they will clash again, and a third matchup could occur if they both reach the final.
Recent reports also reveal that the ICC has approved a budget of approximately USD 70 million for hosting the Champions Trophy in Pakistan next year. The budget, prepared by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the ICC finance department, was scrutinized and approved by the ICC’s financial and commercial committee, headed by BCCI secretary Jay Shah. The allocation of additional funds has fueled speculation that the ICC may be preparing for potential complications should India decide against touring Pakistan.
