PCB Suggests Special Travel Arrangement for India During 2025 Champions Trophy

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has proposed a special arrangement to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for the upcoming 2025 Champions Trophy

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has proposed a special arrangement to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for the upcoming 2025 Champions Trophy, suggesting that India could return to either New Delhi or Chandigarh between matches instead of staying in Pakistan, due to security concerns. The PCB indicated that the Indian team could establish a camp in one of these cities and use chartered flights to travel to Lahore for their matches. While this proposal has been discussed verbally, it has not yet been made in writing. The Champions Trophy, scheduled from February 19 to March 9, 2025, will see matches played in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Karachi, with India’s games planned in Lahore due to its proximity to the Indian border.

India is slated to face Bangladesh, Pakistan, and New Zealand in the group stage on February 20, 23, and March 2, respectively. Despite logistical discussions, the PCB reaffirms its commitment to hosting the final match in Lahore, with or without India’s participation. Meanwhile, the International Cricket Council (ICC) is considering a hybrid model, potentially hosting some matches outside Pakistan in venues such as Dubai or Sri Lanka. This consideration arises from India’s hesitation to tour Pakistan, having not played there since 2008. With India’s involvement in the tournament uncertain, the ICC is exploring alternative solutions to ensure their participation while maintaining tournament logistics.