Positive developments for India’s participation in Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan: report

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has received positive indications regarding the Indian cricket team's participation in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which is set to be hosted in Pakistan. 

According to sources, the PCB has been in talks with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and other cricket boards, and the outlook for India's tour of Pakistan is promising, as reported by a local news channel.

The ICC is expected to release the Champions Trophy schedule to the cricket boards of the participating nations next week. The PCB had submitted its proposed schedule for the tournament a few weeks ago, which has now been thoroughly reviewed by the ICC without any changes being made. This schedule includes the eagerly anticipated matches that will be held in Pakistan.

The Champions Trophy 2025 will feature prominent cricketing nations including Australia, England, and India, along with South Africa, Bangladesh, New Zealand, and Afghanistan. This will mark a significant moment in cricket history as the Indian team is poised to play in Pakistan after a long hiatus, with Lahore set to host India’s matches and the final of the tournament.

Despite past political tensions and security concerns, India has not officially refused to participate in the tournament in Pakistan. The positive developments suggest that the Indian team might indeed be ready to cross the border for the first time in many years. The seven other participating nations have already shown their enthusiasm for playing in Pakistan, and any last-minute withdrawal by India would likely be complicated if the other teams have confirmed their attendance.

According to the draft schedule, the Champions Trophy will take place from February 19 to March 9, 2025, across three major Pakistani cities: Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi. The tournament will kick off with an opening match at Karachi’s National Stadium, which will also host one of the semi-finals and two other matches. Lahore’s iconic Gaddafi Stadium will host seven matches, including the final, while Rawalpindi will see five matches, including the second semi-final.

To prepare for the tournament, extensive upgrades are being made to the cricket facilities in these cities. Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium is undergoing significant renovations, including the construction of modern corporate boxes and the enhancement of spectator capacity in key enclosures. New digital screens are being installed at the venues in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi. Additionally, Karachi's National Stadium is getting a new media center and improvements to its overall infrastructure.

This edition of the Champions Trophy marks the tournament’s return after an eight-year break. The last time it was held was in 2017 in England, where Pakistan emerged victorious by defeating India in a memorable final.