The ICC Champions Trophy, absent for eight years, is scheduled to be held in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9 next year. The last edition saw Pakistan clinch the title by defeating India in a memorable final in 2017. Bilateral cricket between India and Pakistan remained suspended since the 2008 Asia Cup, owing to strained political relations. Consequently, their encounters are limited to global tournaments, with their recent clash occurring at the T20 World Cup 2024 in New York, where India secured a significant victory over Pakistan.

Speculations and potential Champions Trophy 2025 format

Speculations abound regarding the format of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, with discussions expected at the ICC Annual General Meeting in Sri Lanka. There are talks of adopting a hybrid model akin to the Asia Cup 2023, designed to accommodate various logistical and political considerations. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has submitted a tentative schedule to the ICC pending an official announcement, stirring anticipation among fans and stakeholders.

Also READ: Will India visit Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025? BCCI responds

Harbhajan Singh’s perspective on India’s participation

Amidst these developments, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reiterated that the final decision on India’s participation in Pakistan will rest with the Indian government. Amidst ongoing discussions an old video is taking rounds on social media where former Indian off spinner Harbhajan Singh expressed strong emotions during a show on a Pakistani TV channel. He asserted that India would not send its team for the Champions Trophy next year due to concerns over player safety in Pakistan.

“If our players are not safe in Pakistan, we won’t send the team. If you want to play, play; if not, then don’t. Indian cricket can still survive without Pakistan. If you guys can survive without Indian cricket, do it,” Harbhajan had said in a video.

Here’s the video:

Harbhajan Singh said, “If our players are not safe in Pakistan, we won’t send the team. If you want to play, play; if not, don’t. Indian cricket can still survive without Pakistan. If you guys can survive without Indian cricket, then do it.” pic.twitter.com/tJaywUqUQV

— Vipin Tiwari (@Vipintiwari952) July 13, 2024

Also READ: Shahid Afridi claims Virat Kohli will experience more love in Pakistan than India during 2025 Champions Trophy

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