Sun Nov 10 12:22:46 UTC 2024: ## India’s Champions Trophy Participation in Pakistan Raises Tensions, Pakistan Threatens Boycott

Tensions are rising over India’s potential refusal to travel to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy. While the two nations haven’t played a bilateral series in over a decade due to political tensions, Pakistan hosted India for the 2023 ODI World Cup.

However, reports suggest India is reluctant to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy and the BCCI has proposed a ‘hybrid’ model where India plays their matches in Dubai.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has called for a strong response from Pakistan if India refuses to travel, stating, “ICC exists only because there is Pakistan and India. If the government of Pakistan also says like India that we won’t play, then the ICC will be of no use as no one will watch the match.”

Latif further emphasized that India cannot deny participation in ICC events as they have already signed agreements. “If India doesn’t come this time, Pakistan will take a big step by not participating in the tournament,” he warned.

The BCCI has reportedly informed the ICC of India’s unwillingness to travel to Pakistan, with Pakistan likely to take the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

The situation highlights the complex political landscape impacting international cricket. While the Champions Trophy is an ICC event, the refusal to play due to political reasons raises questions about the future of global cricket and the power dynamics between participating nations.

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