SPORTS
PCB Asks Written Confirmation from BCCI on India’s Refusal to Tour Pakistan for 2025 Champions Trophy
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has formally requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to provide written proof if the Indian government decides not to permit their cricket team to tour Pakistan for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. According to a report by an Indian news agency, senior PCB officials have stated that any such refusal must be documented officially.
The PCB stressed the importance of the Indian cricket board providing this written confirmation to the International Cricket Council (ICC) as well. PCB sources highlighted that BCCI should have informed them and the ICC about their participation status at least 5-6 months prior to the tournament, in writing.
Last year, due to the BCCI’s reluctance, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) was pressured into playing the Asia Cup in a hybrid model, with matches held in both Sri Lanka and Pakistan. This was after the BCCI refused to play in Pakistan. However, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has made it clear to the ICC that Pakistan will not relinquish the hosting rights for the 2025 Champions Trophy. He asserted that it is the ICC’s responsibility to ensure India’s participation in the event. Recently, there were reports in Indian media suggesting that the ICC was considering relocating the tournament from Pakistan. However, BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla later dismissed these reports.