ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Final May Shift to Dubai If India Qualifies

Uncertainty Looms Over ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Final in Pakistan Amid India’s Potential Qualification

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to be hosted in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9, is stirring significant debate regarding India’s participation. Due to ongoing political tensions between India and Pakistan, discussions have intensified about whether India will play their matches in Pakistan or if alternative arrangements will be made.

Recent reports suggest that while Lahore has been selected as the venue for the tournament’s final, if India qualifies for the summit clash, the final could potentially be shifted to Dubai. This stems from India’s hesitancy to tour Pakistan, which has been evident since their last visit in 2008. Since then, the two countries have only met in international tournaments, avoiding bilateral series due to diplomatic strains.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi remains optimistic about hosting the entire tournament, including India’s participation. He emphasized that Pakistan is on track with preparations, ensuring that the stadiums in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi are ready. Naqvi expressed confidence that India would ultimately join the tournament and play in Pakistan, despite speculations to the contrary.

However, reports indicate that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has sought the government’s approval for the team’s participation. It is believed that if India does participate, their matches may be played in the UAE, similar to the hybrid model used during the Asia Cup 2023, where India played all their games in Sri Lanka.

The final decision on India’s travel and participation will depend on the Indian government’s stance, which remains pending. If India qualifies for the final, there remains the possibility of shifting the match to Dubai to ensure India’s involvement while maintaining the integrity of the competition. With the stakes high and preparations ongoing, both countries await a conclusive decision

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