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The decision by the Indian government to prohibit the national cricket team from traveling to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025 has ignited controversy and sparked debate within the cricketing world. The International Cricket Council (ICC) officially announced that India would not be participating in the tournament in Pakistan, effectively leaving a void in the competition. While the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had initially proposed a hybrid model that would see India playing their matches in Dubai, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) vehemently opposed this suggestion, insisting on hosting the entire tournament within its borders.
Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra, known for his insightful commentary, has squarely placed the blame for this situation on Pakistan. He emphatically stated that the Indian government, not the BCCI, holds the ultimate authority regarding travel to Pakistan. Chopra further highlighted the recent bomb blast in Quetta, Pakistan, and the ongoing geopolitical tensions between the two nations, particularly concerning the Kashmir issue, as contributing factors to the Indian government's decision. He pointed out the inherent risks associated with India's participation in Pakistan, emphasizing the security concerns that ultimately prevailed.
Chopra also speculated that if the Champions Trophy is to proceed, India's matches might be relocated to a neutral venue, such as the United Arab Emirates, to mitigate the political and security risks. He referenced a statement made by the former PCB chief during the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he described traveling to India as venturing into 'enemy territory.' Chopra argued that if Pakistan were to subsequently refuse to play against India, it would have repercussions. He acknowledged that India would also face consequences for not visiting Pakistan, but he asserted that these sanctions would likely be primarily financial. He questioned the ICC's ability to significantly penalize India, given its substantial contribution to the organization's revenue. Chopra concluded by stating his belief that the Champions Trophy would be unlikely to proceed without India's participation, a sentiment shared by all participating teams, including Pakistan.
Source: Ex-India Star Blames Pakistan For Champions Trophy Row: "There Was A Bomb Blast..."