Pakistan's 2024-25 home season promises to be a spectacle, with the prestigious Champions Trophy taking center stage. However, the participation of neighboring India remains uncertain, casting a shadow over the tournament's allure.
India has not toured Pakistan since 2008, and the two archrivals have only faced each other in multi-team events. Pakistan hosted the Asia Cup last year, but India, the eventual champions, played all their matches in Sri Lanka under a "hybrid model." India cited a lack of government clearance for their absence in Pakistan.
The PCB has announced a packed home schedule, including Test series against Bangladesh, England, and West Indies. A 50-over tri-series with New Zealand and South Africa is also scheduled for February 2025.
The Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore is undergoing renovations in preparation for the 2025 Champions Trophy, which will be held from February 19 to March 5. The PCB has stated that the tournament's dates and venues will be confirmed by the ICC in due course.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi emphasized the significance of hosting five elite cricket nations and several other teams over the next eight months. "We deeply value the participation of these teams and players, who will bring immense talent and competitive spirit to our fields," he said.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not yet commented on India's participation in the Champions Trophy. However, BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla recently stated that they would only participate with government approval.
Pakistan won the last Champions Trophy in 2017, which was held in England. The tournament is being revived by the ICC to ensure a major event is hosted every year.
Tags: #PakistanCricket, #ChampionsTrophy, #IndiaPakistanRivalry, #PCB, #GaddafiStadium
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