'Outrageous Decision': Rashid Latif Criticizes India's Move on ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Demands Accountability

The BCCI has officially communicated to the ICC that Team India will not be participating in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan. This decision reiterates their stance since their last visit to Pakistan in 2008 for the Asia Cup led by MS Dhoni.

According to PTI, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed the development, stating, “The PCB has received an email from the ICC, indicating that the BCCI has informed them that their team will not travel to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.”

“The PCB has forwarded that e-mail to the Government of Pakistan for their advice and guidance.”

Pakistan is gearing up to host its first ICC event since 1996, with preparations in full swing. The PCB has reportedly submitted a draft schedule to the ICC, outlining three venues for the tournament, which is expected to run from February 19 to March 19 next year.

India’s refusal to travel has complicated the tournament’s future, raising uncertainties around its smooth execution. The Champions Trophy is set to feature the top eight teams, including powerhouses like Australia and England, adding to the stakes of resolving this issue.

Former Pakistan wicketkeeper Rashid Latif took a swipe at India, emphasizing that actions like these are not acceptable in cricket. Citing PTI, he remarked, “Enough is enough. When all teams are playing in Pakistan without any problem, this decision by India is purely political and that should be unacceptable in all sports, including cricket.”

Former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq also voiced his disappointment regarding India’s decision.

He said, “They are depriving cricket of such a big occasion. There is no threat to the Indian team in Pakistan. In fact, they would get the best hospitality here.”