Wasim Akram explains why Indian team should visit Pakistan for Champions Trophy 2025

Former captain hopes all countries will participate in mega event as cricket and politics are entirely different

Former Pakistan cricket captain Wasim Akram has expressed hope that the Indian team will visit Pakistan for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy.

"I believe the Indian team will tour Pakistan next year for the Champions Trophy and witness the excellent arrangements,” Akram said during an interview with an international media outlet.

He praised PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi's efforts to upgrade stadiums for the mega event, calling it a positive step.

Akram emphasised that Pakistan needs this tournament to boost its cricketing profile. "I hope all countries will participate because cricket and politics are entirely different. The whole nation is ready to host eight major teams," he added.

The 2025 Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place between February and mid-March, featuring 15 matches. The Indian team is expected to play all its matches in Lahore.

This tournament marks the return of the Champions Trophy after an eight-year hiatus. Pakistan won the last edition in 2017 under Sarfraz Ahmed's leadership, defeating India in the final.

The ICC has confirmed the participation of eight teams: Pakistan (host), India, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Afghanistan, England, and Bangladesh.

Pakistan and India have not played a bilateral series since 2013. The Indian team last toured Pakistan for the 2008 Asia Cup.