Harbhajan Singh backs BCCI's stance on not traveling to Pakistan for Champions Trophy 2025

Former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has voiced strong support for the Indian cricket team avoiding a visit to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025, which is set to begin in February. 

Singh highlighted ongoing security issues in Pakistan, suggesting that safety concerns are prevalent due to frequent security incidents.

The Indian team has not played in Pakistan since 2008 due to persistent security concerns and is unlikely to make the trip for the upcoming Champions Trophy. 

Reports indicate that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering a hybrid model, which would see Rohit Sharma and his team playing their matches in either Sri Lanka or the UAE.

In an interview with IANS, Harbhajan Singh questioned the rationale behind sending the Indian team to Pakistan given the current safety concerns. 

"Why should the Indian team go to Pakistan? There is a safety concern in Pakistan. The situation is such that incidents occur almost daily. It’s not safe for the team to go there. The BCCI's stance is absolutely correct—nothing is more important than the safety of our players. I fully support the BCCI’s decision," Singh said.

Pakistan is set to host its first major tournament since the 2008 Asia Cup and is making significant efforts to ensure the event’s success. However, India’s hesitation to travel for the Champions Trophy 2025 presents a substantial challenge for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).