PCB approaches other cricket boards after India's Champions Trophy snub

In response to India’s refusal to tour Pakistan for the Champions Trophy set to take place next year, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has begun seeking support from other cricket boards to ensure the event’s success.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi met with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) head, Richard Thompson, in London on Friday to discuss the tournament's status and update Thompson on Pakistan's stance regarding the issue, Express News reported.

Thompson expressed well wishes for the PCB, recalling England's “outstanding” recent tour of Pakistan and voicing his hope for a successful Champions Trophy.

Thompson thanked Naqvi for Pakistan’s hospitality during England's tour and reassured him of England’s support for the tournament’s successful hosting.

PCB assures security and modern facilities
Naqvi assured Thompson that Pakistan is fully prepared to host the Champions Trophy, with modernised stadiums and strict security measures, including state guest protocols, ready to accommodate all participating teams.

Indian stance challenged amid comprehensive security plans
According to PCB sources, Pakistan’s "master security plan," shared with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on October 10, has not faced objections from any International Cricket Council (ICC) members as of the October 21 board meeting.

The PCB asserts that with all parties agreeing to the plan, the BCCI has no “legal or ethical” basis to oppose the tournament based on security concerns.

Moreover, the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 Trophy Tour, partnered with DP World, launched Saturday in Islamabad, Pakistan, with planned stops across the nation’s iconic landmarks. The prestigious silver trophy will tour all eight participating nations, providing fans with unique, up-close experiences.

The tour opened in Islamabad at major sites, including Daman-e-Koh, Faisal Mosque, and the Pakistan Monument, with cricket legend Shoaib Akhtar present to greet fans. Following Islamabad, the tour will continue to other cities like Karachi, Abbottabad, and Taxila, showcasing Pakistan as the defending champion before beginning an international circuit.

ICC Chief Commercial Officer Anurag Dahiya expressed enthusiasm for the event, stating, “We are thrilled to launch this Trophy Tour, which will allow our dedicated fanbase around the world a chance to experience this iconic trophy.”