Shane Watson disappointed with India's stance on playing Champions Trophy in Pakistan

Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson has voiced his disappointment over India’s decision not to travel to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Calling it an "unfortunate" turn of events, Watson lamented the missed opportunity for cricket fans to witness the iconic rivalry between the two nations.  

Speaking during the ICC Champions Trophy Tour in Sydney, Watson said, "It’s unfortunate things have turned out this way, but everyone loves watching India-Pakistan games."  

Reflecting on his own experience playing in Pakistan, Watson shared how much the country’s passion for cricket meant to him. "I got a small opportunity to play in the PSL in 2019, the first time after playing there in 2005. It was one of the highlights of my career. To go to Pakistan after a long time and see the love and joy they have for cricket was incredible. They were starved of world-class live cricket," he said.  

Watson acknowledged the significance of hosting such a major event for Pakistan cricket fans. "It’s going to be huge for Pakistan cricket fans to watch world-class players in their country," he added.  

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will take place from February 19 to March 9, with matches in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi. India's matches will be held at neutral venues in the UAE.  

The tournament will feature eight teams divided into two groups. Group A includes Pakistan, India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, while Group B comprises Afghanistan, Australia, England, and South Africa. Watson believes this tournament could reignite the excitement of international cricket in Pakistan.  

"This tournament will light up Pakistan. It’s going to be a special event for the country and its cricket fans," Watson concluded.