PCB Received BCCI’s Formal Refusal for India’s Participation in Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan

Will Pakistan withdraw from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025? This question has been bothering cricket fans ever since the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that India won't be traveling to Pakistan for the mega tournament. 

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that it received a formal communication from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), via the International Cricket Council (ICC), stating India’s decision not to travel to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The situation could now escalate into a significant challenge for the tournament.

The BCCI's letter was sent to the ICC last week, which in turn forwarded it to the PCB. A PCB spokesperson acknowledged receipt of the communication, stating, “The PCB has received an email from the ICC, notifying us that the BCCI has informed them of their decision. We have forwarded this to the Government of Pakistan for their guidance.”

While the BCCI refused to send India to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, there are reports that Pakistan might withdraw from the tournament altogether, rejecting a ‘Hybrid Model’ while remaining adamant that the event should take place entirely within the country. Pakistan is also seeking clarity from the government on an official response.

The official stance from India aligned with a longstanding reluctance to play in Pakistan, well-known within the global cricket community. Now, the pressing question is whether the ICC will consider a hybrid model, relocating India’s matches to the UAE—a solution that may not fully address the complex political and historical tensions between the two nations.

PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi has already expressed discontent with the idea of a hybrid model, stating, “No discussions have been held regarding a hybrid model, and we are not prepared to consider it.” His remarks suggest a potential standoff on the issue. The PCB plans to consult both the ICC and the Pakistani government for further direction.

In response to the situation, the ICC postponed a planned event on November 11, which would have revealed the tournament schedule and marked the 100-day countdown to the Champions Trophy. With unresolved diplomatic sensitivities at play, it remains uncertain how this impasse will impact the tournament’s future.