Champions Trophy 2025: Limited options for India to decline Pakistan tour

The recent ICC meeting in Dubai proved very favorable for Pakistan, as no participating country raised security questions regarding the Champions Trophy arrangements, highlighting that India now has limited options to decline the tour of Pakistan.

According to details, satisfaction with preparations for the Champions Trophy was explicitly expressed, and no security concerns were raised by any country. This positive feedback is now part of the official record.

India previously attempted to persuade some close allies to express concerns about visiting Pakistan ahead of the Asia Cup, but this strategy, which partially influenced the hybrid model in the last tournament, proved unsuccessful this time.

Furthermore, Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar also recently visited Pakistan and reportedly appreciated the hospitality. Currently, the England cricket team and fans are actively engaged in matches in Rawalpindi, which underscores Pakistan’s hosting capabilities.

The ICC, however, is reportedly concerned that BCCI may decline the tour by citing lack of government clearance, which could explain why the official schedule has yet to be released. The schedule will only be announced after a clear response from the Indian side, though the Indian government has maintained silence on the matter so far. A sideline meeting was expected between PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and BCCI officials in Dubai, but domestic political turbulence led to Naqvi's shortened UAE visit, eliminating opportunities for any separate discussions.