India fears Pakistan boycott over Champions Trophy snub

BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla has suggested that the Indian cricket team might visit Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, contingent on government approval.

Addressing participants of the Uttar Pradesh Premier League, Shukla indicated that the team could tour Pakistan if permitted by the government, while Pakistan remains free to decide its participation in the 2026 ODI World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.

Shukla acknowledged the possibility of Pakistan's reaction if India declines to travel. He noted that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) might retaliate if India skips the tournament. Despite potential threats of Pakistan boycotting the Asia Cup in India, Shukla emphasised that the decision lies with the Indian government, not the BCCI.

The Champions Trophy is scheduled to be held in Pakistan from February to March 2025. However, discussions are ongoing about the venue and participating teams, with the BCCI favoring a hybrid or neutral venue model. Conversely, the PCB insists on hosting the entire event in Pakistan, leaving the responsibility of bringing the Indian team to the ICC.

Indian media reports that a top BCCI official stated they are in communication with the government, and if approval isn't granted, the ICC must relocate their matches to a neutral venue. The official highlighted that government approval is mandatory for international tours, and they continue to seek clearance for the Champions Trophy without a positive response so far.

Pakistan's hosting of the Champions Trophy 2025 may face challenges if India opts out, potentially leading to Pakistan's boycott of future ICC events in India. The BCCI has expressed concerns that if India does not send its team, Pakistan might refuse to participate in the next three tournaments scheduled in India.