Fri Nov 01 11:40:53 UTC 2024: ## Former Pakistan Captain Zaheer Abbas Expresses Concern Over India’s Possible Absence from Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan
**Islamabad, Pakistan:** Former Pakistan captain Zaheer Abbas has expressed his disappointment over the uncertainty surrounding India’s participation in the 2025 Champions Trophy, scheduled to be held in Pakistan.
In an interview with Sports Tak, Abbas stated that he is deeply saddened by the possibility of India not participating in the tournament. “It wouldn’t be good for cricket,” he said, emphasizing the immense global interest in Indo-Pak clashes. “Cricket is a huge thing in both countries, and people from all over the world watch these matches with great passion.”
The last time India played a bilateral series in Pakistan was during the 2008 Asia Cup. Since then, the two arch-rivals have only met in ICC tournaments, most recently in the 2024 T20 World Cup in the US.
The Indian government’s stance on the matter remains unclear, leaving the fate of India’s participation in the 2025 Champions Trophy in limbo.
The absence of India from the tournament would be a major blow for the event, especially given the massive fan base and the high stakes associated with Indo-Pak encounters.
The ICC is yet to make an official statement regarding the issue.
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