PCB Plans Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule with India’s Matches in Lahore
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is making preparations for the 2025 Champions Trophy with a draft schedule that includes hosting all of India’s matches in Lahore, in a bid to facilitate what could potentially be India’s first visit to Pakistan in nearly 17 years.
Scheduled to be held across three venues – Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi – the two-week Champions Trophy is a significant event for Pakistan cricket, aiming to accommodate the participation of all teams, including India. The decision to base India’s matches in Lahore is aimed at streamlining logistical and security considerations, as well as providing Indian fans with relatively easier access to the venue, given its proximity to the Wagah border crossing.
While the PCB has sent the draft schedule to the International Cricket Council (ICC), discussions among the participating members will determine the final arrangements, with India’s potential participation being a major point of contention. The final decision rests with the Indian government, rather than the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Notably, India has not played in Pakistan since the 2008 Asia Cup, with bilateral cricketing ties between the two nations being affected by geopolitical tensions. The rarity of India-Pakistan encounters in recent years has intensified the anticipation surrounding such matches, underscoring the significance of the proposed visit for cricket fans on both sides.
Despite the historical challenges, Pakistan has successfully hosted international cricket events since the return of international cricket to the country in 2015. However, India’s absence from these events, including the Champions Trophy, has been conspicuous.
The proposed Champions Trophy schedule represents a milestone for Pakistan cricket, marking the first ICC event hosted by the country since the 1996 World Cup. While challenges persist, including governmental decisions and security considerations, the PCB remains optimistic about the event’s success and the broader prospects for international cricket in Pakistan.
As defending champions of the tournament, Pakistan aims to showcase its cricketing prowess on home soil and revitalize the spirit of the Champions Trophy, building on the legacy of past successes while embracing the opportunities for future growth and collaboration within the cricketing community.