The PCB proposed a reduced travel plan for the Indian team during the upcoming Champions Trophy, to be held in Pakistan.
Pakistan’s cricket board (PCB) has proposed a simplified travel plan for the Indian team during next year’s Champions Trophy. The PCB, hosting the prestigious tournament in February–March 2025, has chosen Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Lahore as venues, with Lahore hosting the final match.
Discussions between the PCB and the International Cricket Council (ICC) included minimising travel for the Indian team. A PCB source revealed, “The ICC general manager Wasim Khan also recently visited Lahore, where he discussed the CT arrangements with the PCB top brass, and it was suggested that the Indian team’s travel itinerary be kept to a minimum,” as quoted by News18. The source hinted that India could play its qualifying matches in Karachi before moving to other venues for the knockout stages.
This proposal came amid uncertainty over India’s participation in Pakistan. Since 2008, India has only played the Pakistani team in ICC events due to political tensions. Last year, India skipped the Asia Cup held in Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
Despite the uncertainty, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi remained confident. He asserted that all teams will participate in the Champions Trophy in Pakistan as planned. Chairman Naqvi also confirmed that stadium renovations will begin soon to prepare for the tournament.
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Hence, there is a chance that India will be visiting Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, which was earlier denied by a BCCI source. Meanwhile, India and Pakistan will meet in the T20 World Cup group stage match. The marquee clash will take place on June 9th.
Last Updated on May 2, 2024
