As the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 approaches, excitement is building, yet significant diplomatic challenges remain unresolved. Pakistan, awarded the hosting rights, is set to welcome the global cricket community for one of the most anticipated tournaments in recent memory, scheduled from February 19 to March 9. However, ongoing political tensions and security concerns have led to a standoff between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), putting India‘s participation in Pakistan at risk.

Mohammad Rizwan extends a warm gesture amid tensions

Amidst this backdrop, Pakistani captain Mohammad Rizwan expressed his hopes for a successful CT 2025 that includes both nations, conveying a warm welcome to the Indian team during a press conference in Brisbane.

Rizwan has reached out with a warm welcome to Indian players, including KL Rahul and Suryakumar Yadav, expressing hopes for a historic tournament hosted in Pakistan. Rizwan’s remarks came during a media session before Pakistan’s T20I series against Australia in Brisbane, where he reiterated Pakistan’s willingness to host India if ongoing diplomatic and security concerns can be resolved.

“KL Rahul, Suryakumar Yadav, and all players from India are welcome here. While the decision lies with the PCB, we’re hopeful that all parties will discuss and reach a solution. We would love to welcome the Indian team in Pakistan,” Rizwan said.

Mohammad Rizwan says regarding the Champions Trophy he said for KL Rahul and Suryakumar Yadav, the only thing we have to say is Just Welcome Welcome 😊💪🇵🇰❤️This is not our decision, but if they come to Pakistan, we will welcome them in a good manner.
Look Indians Do Takkay k… pic.twitter.com/gyE6fd3Zvf

— Qadir Khawaja (@iamqadirkhawaja) November 13, 2024

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India-Pakistan cricket relations in the spotlight

India and Pakistan, two cricket powerhouses, have not played a bilateral series since 2012, leaving ICC events as the only platform for these fierce rivals to compete. This absence has intensified the stakes around international tournaments, especially the Champions Trophy, where both teams’ participation is crucial for its success. While the PCB is keen to hold the event entirely in Pakistan, the BCCI has expressed reservations about sending the Indian team, citing security and diplomatic challenges.

Champions Trophy: Hybrid model and neutral venues under discussion

To address these concerns, the PCB has proposed a hybrid model where Indian matches could be hosted outside Pakistan, ensuring their participation without compromising security. However, this arrangement has yet to gain full traction, with Pakistan remaining committed to a full-scale domestic tournament. As an alternative, the ICC is reportedly exploring neutral venues, including South Africa and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), to keep India’s matches outside Pakistan while maintaining the tournament’s competitive integrity.

Also READ: ICC Champions Trophy 2025 to be moved from Pakistan to South Africa?

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