The 2025 Champions Trophy is slated to occur in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9, with seven nations participating. These include India, Australia, England, South Africa, Bangladesh, New Zealand, and Afghanistan.
Amidst discussions about India's involvement in the tournament, former Pakistan fast bowler Wasim Akram emphasized the significance of hosting such a prestigious event for the advancement of cricket in Pakistan.
“I hope that India comes to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. The whole country is looking forward to receiving all the teams. The cricket will be great and we will welcome them in splendid fashion. We have great facilities and are working on new stadiums. The chairman has started work on the new stadiums in Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad so I believe it will be a great tournament and Pakistan needs that tournament for the betterment of cricket and I hope all countries do come because cricket and politics should always be separate,” Akram
India has not toured Pakistan for a bilateral series since 2006, with encounters limited to ICC tournaments due to strained relations between the two nations. Reports suggest India remains hesitant about traveling to Pakistan, potentially leading to a hybrid tournament format.
“Overall everything is ready. The whole country is looking forward to receiving all the teams and dignitaries and the press as well and I hope you guys come to see what wonderful arrangements we have in Pakistan,” added the former captain of the Pakistan national team.
The 2023 Asia Cup was also scheduled in Pakistan, but the BCCI cited government restrictions, resulting in part of the tournament, including India's matches, relocating to Sri Lanka.
India and Pakistan have not engaged in bilateral cricket series since 2012, participating only in ICC events. Pakistan visited India for the 2023 ODI World Cup. The BCCI maintains that India will tour Pakistan only with government approval.
