The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has responded to reports of Pakistan boycotting the 2026 T20 World Cup, which India will co-host with Sri Lanka. BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla stated that the Indian government’s approval is required for the Indian cricket team to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025.
Shukla’s statement comes after reports emerged that Pakistan might boycott the Asia Cup 2025 and T20 World Cup 2026 if India does not travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. However, Shukla remained nonchalant, saying that Pakistan can say whatever they want about participating in the T20 World Cup 2026.
The Champions Trophy 2025 is scheduled to take place in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9, 2025, with three venues: Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Lahore. However, the BCCI has requested the ICC to either move the tournament out of Pakistan or schedule India’s matches at a neutral venue, citing security concerns.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) stands firm on hosting all matches in Pakistan, despite rumors of a neutral venue or plan B. The PCB believes that India does not have a strong reason not to come to Pakistan, as all other participating teams have already played in the country.
The situation remains uncertain, with the BCCI awaiting government approval and the PCB standing firm on hosting the tournament in Pakistan.
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