Rohit Sharma addresses India's participation in Pakistan-hosted 2025 Champions Trophy

Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma has recently addressed the media regarding India’s potential participation in the 2025 Champions Trophy, scheduled to be held in Pakistan. The statement comes amidst growing uncertainty surrounding the tournament's venue and India's involvement.

When asked about India’s possible travel to Pakistan for the event, Sharma clarified that the decision would ultimately lie with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and not the players.

"The decision is not in our hands. It will be made by the cricket boards, and we are focused on the tournament ahead," Sharma stated. He reiterated that wherever the BCCI chooses to send the team, the players will be ready to compete. "If we are sent to Pakistan, there will be no issue," he added.

The 2025 Champions Trophy is set to take place from February 19 to March 9 in Pakistan, but the Indian team's participation remains uncertain. The BCCI, as reported by ESPNcricinfo, has informed the International Cricket Council (ICC) that it will not send India’s cricket team to Pakistan, citing advice from the Indian government. This decision has raised questions about the feasibility of the tournament being held in its original location.

In response to India's position, the ICC and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) are exploring potential solutions, with a “hybrid model” emerging as a likely option. Under this model, some matches could be held in Pakistan, while others might be played at an alternate venue. The UAE is reportedly a leading candidate due to its proximity to Pakistan, with Sri Lanka also being considered as a backup location.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, however, expressed frustration over the lack of formal communication from the BCCI and ICC. He stated that no official confirmation had been received in writing regarding India’s stance, and the PCB continues to prepare for the tournament in Pakistan as planned. "There has been no discussion regarding the hybrid model yet," Naqvi said, adding that Pakistan should not always be expected to show goodwill in these matters.

In the meantime, the ICC has postponed a key event related to the Champions Trophy schedule announcement, which was initially set for Monday, November 11, in Lahore. An ICC official stated that discussions with the host and participating nations are still ongoing, and a formal announcement will be made once the schedule is confirmed.

The 2025 Champions Trophy is expected to feature eight teams: Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, and South Africa. The tournament will follow a round-robin format within two groups of four, culminating in semi-finals and a final.