PCB Awaits India’s Yes or No for Champions Trophy in Pakistan; ICC to Release Schedule Amid Uncertainty
A clear message has been sent to India to provide a written answer of “yes” or “no” regarding participation in the Champions Trophy. According to media reports, PCB COO Salman Naseer has been busy meeting with ICC officials in Dubai for several days, and Chairman Mohsin Naqvi joined him last week. The schedule for ICC events is typically announced three months in advance, and the Champions Trophy schedule is expected to be released at a ceremony in Pakistan sometime between November 10 and 12. India’s matches are planned for Lahore.
According to details, Pakistan will host an ICC event, the Champions Trophy, in February-March 2025 after a long time. As is often the case, India has added a twist by subjecting its participation to government permission, which has maintained an atmosphere of uncertainty. The International Cricket Council typically announces event schedules three months ahead, and this plan is still in place. Private TV sources claim that a clear message has been given to the Indian Cricket Board to obtain a written answer from its government about traveling to Pakistan, either “yes” or “no.”
A scheduled release ceremony will be held on one of the days between November 10, 11, and 12, with ICC officials in attendance. Historically, the Indian government has not issued a written decision regarding the team’s tour of Pakistan, and it seems unlikely to do so now. Sources indicate that even if India does not respond, the schedule will still be released, with India’s matches planned to take place in Lahore. However, in case of refusal, the ICC has already prepared a “Plan B,” with an additional budget allocated for this contingency, though details are not publicly discussed.
On the other hand, the PCB is hopeful that the Indian team will come for the Champions Trophy. According to the proposed schedule, the event will begin with a match between hosts Pakistan and New Zealand in Karachi on February 19. The following day, India will take on Bangladesh in Lahore. On February 21, Afghanistan will play South Africa in Karachi, while Australia will face England in Lahore on February 22.
New Zealand set to face India in Lahore on February 23 in a thrilling Champions Trophy showdown. Pakistan will play its second game against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on February 24. On February 25, Afghanistan will face England in Lahore, followed by Australia taking on South Africa in Rawalpindi on February 26. On February 27, New Zealand is scheduled to play against Bangladesh in Lahore, and on February 28, Afghanistan and Australia will meet in Rawalpindi.
The most anticipated match of the event, between archrivals Pakistan and India, is set for March 1 in Lahore. The next day, England will take on South Africa in Rawalpindi. The semi-finals are planned for March 5 and 6 in Karachi and Rawalpindi, with the final match to be held on March 9 at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
