Champions Trophy 2025: "We might not see India-Pakistan play for a long time", says former England captain

India's decision to refrain from traveling to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is stirring widespread debate and reigniting tensions between these cricketing powerhouses. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), citing the Indian government’s refusal to grant clearance, officially confirmed that the Indian team will not participate in the tournament on Pakistani soil.

This move has triggered passionate reactions from fans and experts worldwide, many of whom worry that this rift could further strain cricketing relations between the two nations.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan voiced his apprehensions about the deteriorating ties on the Club Prairie Fire Podcast, expressing doubts about the future of India-Pakistan cricket.

“India have obviously announced that they would not be playing in Pakistan; it looks like they're going to play in Dubai,” said Vaughan. He added that this decision might reduce the likelihood of seeing India and Pakistan compete outside of ICC tournaments for the foreseeable future.

Vaughan warned of significant long-term consequences from India’s decision.

"Potentially, we might not see India play Pakistan for a long, long time,” he remarked. He also speculated that the BCCI may lobby for India’s Champions Trophy matches to be held in Dubai, a neutral venue preferred by many due to its proximity and established facilities for international cricket.

Despite these concerns, Vaughan remains hopeful about reviving the once-celebrated India-Pakistan Test series. He proposed that a neutral venue, such as Australia or the UK, could host the series, allowing cricket fans from both nations to witness the historic rivalry.

“India vs. Pakistan: if you can’t play it in your own backyard, play it here in Australia; we’ll host it in the UK,” he suggested, emphasizing the enormous global fanbase eager for this spectacle.

Vaughan concluded on a somber note, expressing disappointment over India's decision and its potential impact on cricket at large. "It’s sad that India would not be going to Pakistan; it is going to affect the game.”