Champions Trophy 2025 Will Not Be Shifted from Pakistan, Confirms ICC CEO

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed that the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy will be held in Pakistan, putting to rest any speculation about the tournament being relocated. ICC Chief Executive Officer Geoff Allardice reassured the cricket world that there are no plans to shift the tournament from Pakistan, despite ongoing political tensions between India and Pakistan.

In a recent media interaction in the UAE, Allardice stated that the Champions Trophy 2025 is still scheduled to be hosted solely by Pakistan. There have been no official instructions suggesting otherwise. This announcement comes amid concerns raised by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding their national team’s participation due to political disagreements between the two nations. However, Allardice made it clear that, barring India, all other participating teams have expressed their willingness to play in Pakistan.

Earlier, rumors circulated that the tournament might be played in a hybrid model, with matches hosted in countries like Sri Lanka or the UAE to accommodate India’s hesitance to travel to Pakistan. However, Allardice dismissed these claims, confirming that Pakistan remains the sole host, with Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Lahore identified as the venues. India’s matches, if they participate, are scheduled to be held in Lahore to minimize logistical issues.

The tournament is set to take place from February 19 2025 to March 9, 2025. While the BCCI has yet to confirm whether India will participate, they are reportedly seeking government approval for the visit. In the event that India does not travel to Pakistan, alternative solutions are being explored, but as of now, the ICC is confident that the Champions Trophy will proceed as planned in Pakistan.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is working diligently to prepare its stadiums for the tournament. Significant renovations are underway at three major venues: Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, National Stadium in Karachi, and Rawalpindi Stadium. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi recently provided updates on the progress, emphasizing that all construction and upgrades will be completed before the tournament begins.

Pakistan, the defending champions of the ICC Champions Trophy, last won the title in 2017, defeating India in the final. The 2025 edition will feature eight teams: Pakistan, India, Australia, New Zealand, England, South Africa, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. Notably, Sri Lanka and the West Indies have not qualified for this prestigious event.

Despite political tensions and speculation, the ICC remains steadfast in its decision to host the Champions Trophy in Pakistan, reflecting confidence in the country’s ability to manage the event. As preparations continue, cricket fans around the world will eagerly anticipate the tournament, which promises to be a thrilling showcase of international cricket.