Pak hopeful about India’s CT participation

Pakistan is set to host an ICC event after a long hiatus with the Champions Trophy next year. The tournament is scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9, 2025.

However, the situation is complicated by India’s longstanding policy of not sending its team across the border to Pakistan. This policy previously forced the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to adopt a hybrid model for the Asia Cup last year, where Indian matches were held in Sri Lanka instead of Pakistan.

The Champions Trophy is tentatively scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9, and it seems unlikely to implement a hybrid model for this event. The PCB is also not willing to move the event to the UAE or any other country. Officials are fully hopeful that the Indian team will come to Lahore to participate in the tournament.

Sources revealed that during a meeting between high officials of the Pakistan and Indian cricket boards in New York, the Champions Trophy was also discussed. However, as always, India maintained its stance that the decision will be made by their government.

A PCB official, when contacted, confirmed the meeting and reiterated their hope that the Champions Trophy will be held entirely in Pakistan. The official emphasized the significant investments being made to upgrade the stadiums, underscoring Pakistan’s commitment to hosting the event.

It is noteworthy that construction work at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore is rapidly progressing. The stadiums in Karachi and Rawalpindi will also be renovated, with a deadline set for the end of December. These three venues will be the hosts for the mega event.