ICC Champions Trophy Trophy Tour to Exclude Contested Kashmir Regions

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced a worldwide Trophy Tour for the Men's Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to be held in Pakistan. However, the initial plans to conduct the tour in contested regions of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoJK) sparked objections from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

The BCCI Secretary, Jay Shah, promptly opposed the PCB's unilateral decision and called for ICC intervention. Subsequently, the ICC suspended the tour and issued a revised schedule excluding PoJK locations.

Former Indian cricket captain Kapil Dev emphasized that such matters fall under governmental jurisdiction. "It's the government's responsibility. If the government says it's okay, then it's fine. People like us should not give opinions, our opinions don't matter," he said.

The international Trophy Tour will commence in Islamabad, where the trophy will be displayed at Daman-e-Koh, Faisal Mosque, and Pakistan Monument. Former Pakistani fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar will accompany the tour.

The tour will then visit prominent Pakistani cities including Karachi, Abbottabad, and Taxila before proceeding internationally. The ICC stated that the tour will offer unique engagement opportunities for global supporters through vibrant activities aligned with the event's refreshed visual identity.

ICC Chief Commercial Officer Anurag Dahiya welcomed the event's launch, stating, "We are delighted to launch the Trophy Tour with DP World ahead of the ICC Men's Champions Trophy, where another action-packed programme of activity is available to fans across the world."

He elaborated on the fan experience, noting, "The silverware, which will be showcased across all participating nations, will allow the sport's passionate fanbase to enjoy the unforgettable experience of being up close with the iconic trophy."

Tags: #ICC, #ChampionsTrophy, #Pakistan, #India, #BCCI