The ICC has announced that all matches between India and Pakistan in ICC tournaments, including the upcoming Champions Trophy, will be played at neutral venues until 2027 due to ongoing political tensions. This decision ensures the participation of both teams in major tournaments. The Champions Trophy will be held in February 2025, marking Pakistan’s return to hosting a global event after a significant gap.
India’s captain, Rohit Sharma, has confirmed his desire to continue playing white-ball cricket despite retiring from T20 Internationals earlier this year. He is also focused on leading India to victory in the upcoming World Test Championship, aiming to add the elusive trophy to the nation’s cabinet. Sharma’s commitment comes after a successful T20 World Cup win in June and a string of victories in the current World Test Championship cycle.
The return of the Champions Trophy in 2024, hosted by Pakistan, has reignited the debate over India’s participation. While Pakistan’s support for the new ICC chairman, Jay Shah, suggests a possible Indian visit, past political tensions and security concerns remain significant obstacles.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has refuted reports that the redevelopment of three stadiums for next year’s Champions Trophy will be delayed, assuring fans that the tournament will proceed as scheduled. While some domestic and bilateral matches may be affected, the PCB emphasizes that the Champions Trophy remains a top priority.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is undertaking a significant infrastructure upgrade project, including new floodlights for stadiums in Karachi and Lahore for the Champions Trophy. This initiative aims to improve domestic cricket by equipping smaller venues with lighting and ensuring international-standard lighting for major events.
Australian batting legend David Warner has officially announced his retirement from international cricket, calling it a ‘closed chapter.’ However, he remains open to playing in the Champions Trophy next year if selected, a possibility described as an ’emergency option’ by his ODI captain Pat Cummins. Warner, who retired from ODIs after Australia’s World Cup victory in 2022, has been a prolific batsman across all formats, ending his career as Australia’s highest scorer in T20 Internationals.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has allocated a significant 17 billion rupees for stadium upgrades in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi, aiming to elevate them to A-class venues ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy. The board also committed a substantial increase in funding for women’s cricket, demonstrating a strong commitment to developing the sport across all levels.
BCCI secretary Jay Shah has confirmed that Rohit Sharma will continue leading the Indian cricket team in the Champions Trophy and World Test Championship final, if they qualify. Shah expressed confidence in Rohit’s leadership, aiming for victories in both tournaments.
BCCI Secretary Jay Shah has confirmed that senior players will likely feature in the Champions Trophy and World Test Championship final if India qualifies. He also stated that the decision on Hardik Pandya’s potential T20 captaincy will be solely decided by the selectors.
Team India may not participate in the ICC Champions Trophy next year if it is held in Pakistan, according to sources. The venue may be changed or a hybrid model may be used, and a bilateral series between the two countries is also considered unlikely anytime soon.
