Pakistan cricket fans eagerly await the 2025 Champions Trophy, set for three venues. India’s participation is uncertain due to ongoing geopolitical tensions. The situation has heightened anticipation for the event.
India hasn’t sent a cricket team to Pakistan since 2006. The 2023 Asia Cup used a hybrid model, hosting India’s games in Sri Lanka. Recently, a Pakistani fan invited India to the 2025 Champions Trophy.
Champions Cup becomes invitational hub for PAK fans
During a 2024 Champions One-Day Cup game, a fan displayed a placard for India. This happened at Faisalabad’s Iqbal Stadium during the Dolphins vs. Lions match.
The poster carried an inviting message for the Indian cricket team.
“Champions Trophy 2025 (Team India) Pakistani fans are waiting for you.”
The ICC approved Pakistan’s hosting of the 2025 Champions Trophy at three venues. However, India’s participation remains unclear, causing confusion for the PCB.
India’s cricket team is a major attraction in ICC events. Their absence could affect Champions Trophy revenue. Viewership might also decline without their participation.
India and Pakistan’s cricket rivalry is one of the greatest in sports. They haven’t played a bilateral series since 2012. Their encounters now occur only in ICC tournaments and the Asia Cup.
Rohit Sharma’s India faced Babar Azam’s Pakistan in June 2024. The match took place in the USA during the T20 World Cup group stage. It was a significant encounter between the rival teams.
