The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has formally informed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) that it will not send its men’s cricket team to Pakistan for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, according to reports. The BCCI has requested that India’s matches be moved to a neutral venue, with Dubai being considered as the preferred location.
"Yes, the BCCI has conveyed their concerns regarding Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan. They want to play matches at a neutral venue and Dubai is the strong candidate to host the fixtures involving the Men in Blue,” a source told The Times of India.
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Since the ICC awarded the 2025 Champions Trophy to Pakistan, there have been concerns over India’s participation due to ongoing diplomatic tensions between the two countries. Last year, India did not travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup, which was held in a hybrid format with India’s matches taking place in Sri Lanka.
Dubai is considered a top contender due to its success in hosting high-profile cricket events, and with the ICC headquarters located in the city. “There are no issues in Dubai. Hotels, logistics, everything can be handled smoothly. And the ICC has control over events there,” the source added.
The schedule for the Champions Trophy is expected to be announced by November 11. According to news agency PTI, the PCB is willing to make adjustments to the tournament schedule to accommodate India’s request, with Dubai or Sharjah being considered as potential venues for India’s matches.
