Pakistan Proposes, ICC Disposes! Pak Board Asked to Cancel Champions Trophy Tour of PoK

The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy tour in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) has been cancelled by the International Cricket Council (ICC). Following the Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) announcement of the tour schedule, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) voiced complaints, which led to this decision, according to India Today. Let's examine the specifics of this disagreement.

ICC Cancels 2025 ICC Champions Trophy Tour in PoK

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had initially announced the inclusion of the disputed PoK cities of Skardu, Murree, and Muzaffarabad in the Champions Trophy trophy tour, scheduled for November 16 to 24. However, the BCCI immediately voiced its objections. As a result, the ICC decided to cancel the planned tour to these areas under dispute.

India has consistently opposed any activities in PoK due to the ongoing territorial dispute between India and Pakistan. The BCCI’s strong objection to the planned 2025 ICC Champions Trophy tour in these cities led to the ICC stepping in to cancel the visit.

Pakistan’s Request for Explanation from ICC

Amidst this controversy, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has also written to the ICC seeking clarification on India’s refusal to send its team to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025. The PCB is looking for an official explanation from the ICC on India's stance regarding travel to Pakistan for the event.

The cancellation of the PoK cities from the trophy tour is not the only issue troubling the Champions Trophy 2025. India has shown reluctance to travel to Pakistan for the event, leaving its future uncertain.

Will the Champions Trophy Be Shifted or Held in a Hybrid Format?

Bilateral cricket series between India and Pakistan have not taken place since 2012–2013. From 2008, when India last paid a visit to Pakistan, tensions have persisted, particularly in the aftermath of the 26/11 terrorists attack. The Champions Trophy 2025 may take into account the hybrid concept that was employed for the 2023 Asia Cup, in which India played in Sri Lanka rather than Pakistan. It remains to be seen if the tournament will be held entirely in Pakistan or if it will be relocated or adjusted to accommodate India's concerns.

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