Ind not visiting Pak for CT 2025 is unfortunate: Watson

India-Pak cricket rivalry has unparalleled appeal, says Aussie all-rounder

Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson expressed disappointment over India's decision not to travel to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, calling it "unfortunate" for cricket fans in Pakistan.

Speaking during the ICC Champions Trophy Tour, Watson emphasised the importance of the India-Pakistan cricket rivalry and its unparalleled energy at global events.

"It's unfortunate that things worked out that way. But there's no doubt that what everyone loves is watching the India-Pakistan game," said Watson.

"Whenever they come together, whether in ICC events, it's a really special time because we get a sense of what's on the line. From an Australian cricket perspective, we know how big the rivalry is between us and England. The India-Pakistan rivalry is just as huge. No cricket fan wants to miss that game. So, it's unfortunate that India isn't travelling to Pakistan for this Champions Trophy," he added. The 43-year-old remained optimistic for Pakistan's cricket fans, calling the tournament a monumental event for the nation.

"It's going to be huge for the Pakistan cricket fans to have the opportunity to watch world-class cricket in the country," he said.

Reflecting on his own experience playing in Pakistan during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) in 2019, Watson shared fond memories of the passionate Pakistani fans.

"I got a small opportunity to play in the Pakistan Super League in 2019, the first time after playing there in 2005. It was one of the highlights of my career. To go to Pakistan after a long time and see the love and joy they have for cricket was incredible. They were starved of world-class live cricket," he said.

The right-handed batter participated in six PSL editions, representing Islamabad United and Quetta Gladiators.

In 46 PSL matches, he scored 1,361 runs at a strike rate of 138.59, including nine fifties.

It is pertinent to mention that the International Cricket Council (ICC), on December 24, 2024, announced the highly anticipated schedule for the men's Champions Trophy 2025, which will be hosted by Pakistan. The eight-team tournament, consisting of 15 matches, will run from February 19 to March 9 across three venues: Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi in Pakistan, as well as Dubai.

The eight participating teams are divided into two groups.

Group A comprises Pakistan, India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, while Group B includes Afghanistan, South Africa, England, and Australia.

Hosts Pakistan will face New Zealand in the curtain-raiser on February 19 in Karachi. The highly anticipated clash between arch-rivals Pakistan and India is scheduled for February 23 in Dubai.

Pakistan will host a total of 10 matches at their home venues, while four matches, including all three of India's group-stage games and the first semi-final, will be played in Dubai.

The final of the tournament is scheduled to be held in Lahore; however, if India qualifies, the final will also take place in Dubai.