BCCI addresses Pakistan’s boycott concerns for T20 World Cup 2026

BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla has suggested that Team India might travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025, contingent on government approval, despite the current uncertainty over the visit.

Speaking at the Uttar Pradesh Premier League players' auction on Sunday, Shukla stressed that government authorisation is essential for the Indian cricket team's travel to Pakistan for the tournament.

Addressing the possibility of Pakistan withdrawing from the 2026 T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in India and Sri Lanka, Shukla commented that they are free to voice their opinions as they see fit.

"Pakistan can say whatever it wants about coming to India during the 2026 World Cup, but we are only waiting for the approval of the Indian government," Shukla said, addressing the possibility of Pakistan pulling out of the 2026 T20 World Cup, which will take place in India and Sri Lanka.

A senior BCCI official acknowledged the potential for retaliation from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) if India decides not to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy.

Read also: ICC surprised by PCB's confidence in hosting Champions Trophy 2025 despite India's hesitation

“Of course, we expect retaliation. If we don’t travel to Pakistan, they will threaten to boycott the Asia Cup. But the PCB should understand that it’s not in the BCCI’s hands. Sending a team to a foreign country requires the Indian government’s permission. So far, we have had dialogues regarding the Champions Trophy, but we haven’t had any positive outcomes,” the senior BCCI official said.

The Champions Trophy is set to take place in Pakistan in February-March 2025. Uncertainty over India's participation has been a topic of discussion since the fixture was announced. The BCCI reportedly requested the ICC to either move the Champions Trophy out of Pakistan or schedule India's matches at a neutral venue.

In response, the PCB has requested written proof from the BCCI of the Indian government's denial of permission if the team cites security concerns as a reason for not travelling.

According to the tournament schedule, the Champions Trophy will commence in Karachi on February 19 and conclude with the final in Lahore on March 9, with several matches planned in Rawalpindi. A reserve day for the final is scheduled on March 10 in case of inclement weather.