Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to be hosted by Pakistan, has stirred discussions in the cricketing world, especially regarding India's potential participation. Despite being chosen as hosts, Pakistan faces challenges due to the ongoing political tension between the two nations, which has hindered any bilateral cricketing series since 2013.
In 2023, India's refusal to travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup led to the tournament being co-hosted by Sri Lanka. This decision has cast a shadow over India's willingness to participate in the Champions Trophy in Pakistan. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has already rejected the idea of a hybrid model, further complicating the situation.
Jay Shah, the newly appointed chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC) and BCCI secretary, is expected to play a pivotal role in the discussions surrounding the tournament's future. His leadership within the ICC may influence the final decision regarding India's participation.
Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has highlighted the role of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in determining India's participation. With PM Modi invited to Pakistan for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Heads of Governments meeting in October, his decision could impact whether the Indian team travels to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy.
«Now, the entire decision lies on the shoulders of PM Narendra Modi. If he agrees then India may travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy.