Champions Trophy 2025: ICC requests 'written letter' with solid reasons from BCCI for not visiting Pakistan

According to the communique released from Dubai, the International Cricket Council has requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India to explain the reasons that restrained its team from coming to Pakistan to play for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 since that country will host it for the first time in more than two decades next February.

As per the policy of the ICC, the BCCI would have to justify its action of withdrawing from the eight-team competition. In case the reason cited by the BCCI is not good enough for the ICC council, then it has all the rights to let India participate in the tournament. The ninth-ranked team could replace India, state insiders, if the reasons cited by the board are valid.

India’s departure from the Champions Trophy may be a situation where ICC may incur losses running into hundreds of millions of dollars in direct revenue loss. This includes broadcasting rights and sponsorship deals besides advertising losses. Besides, this highly sought-after Pakistan-India match that will not happen, is expected to cost BCCI $100 million more.

Champions Trophy 2025 Tour Kicks Off in Doubtful Conditions

Ironically, India’s participation in the trophy tour despite all the uncertainty surrounding their participation is going to start on 16 November. The silverware from Dubai to Islamabad will make a nine-day journey. It will start in Skardu and be taken to the K2 base camp and big host cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi.

It will be the first ICC trophy tour and will take place even before the official release of the schedule, which is typically released four months prior to an event. This, in itself, speaks volumes as to how important this tournament will be for Pakistan and the ICC.

While the ICC is pondering over a response by the BCCI, the cricketing world is on its toes for clear indications about Champions Trophy 2025. A decision will not only decide the future prospects of the tournament but would also turn it on its feet in terms of financial aspects.