Captain Jos Buttler says England's match against Afghanistan at the Champions Trophy should go ahead after calls for a boycott over the Taliban regime's assault on women's rights.
A group of more than 160 British politicians have written to the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) calling for England not to play the match in Lahore on February 26.
Since returning to power in 2021, the Taliban have effectively banned the participation of women in both sport and broader public life.
That puts the Afghanistan Cricket Board at odds with the rules of governing body the International Cricket Council (ICC).
Buttler said sports and politics should be kept separate.
"Political situations like this, as a player you're trying to be as informed as you can be," he told reporters ahead of the first T20 against India in Kolkata on Wednesday.
"The experts know a lot more about it, so I've been trying to stay in dialogue with Rob Key (managing director of ECB) and the guys above to see how they see it."
ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-india-squad-t20i-skipper-suryakumar-yadav-hurt-by-ct-2025-snub-8642071" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank"> 'It hurts to think...,' India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav on 2025 Champions Trophy snub</a>
"I don't think a boycott is the way to go about it," he added.
"Certainly as a player, you don't want political situations to affect sport. We hope to go to the Champions Trophy and play that game and have a really good tournament."
The ECB has resisted calls for a boycott, with chief executive Richard Gould saying instead he would "actively advocate" for collective action by the ICC instead.
The ICC have allowed the Afghanistan men's team to keep competing in global competitions.
England are clubbed with Afghanistan, Australia and South Africa in the group phase of the Champions Trophy, which begins on February 19.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, Cricket: A group of more than 160 British politicians have written to the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), calling for England not to play the match in Lahore. 

Captain Jos Buttler says England's match against Afghanistan at the Champions Trophy should go ahead after calls for a boycott over the Taliban regime's assault on women's rights. A group of more than 160 British politicians have written to the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) calling for England not to play the match in Lahore on February 26. Since returning to power in 2021, the Taliban have effectively banned the participation of women in both sport and broader public life. That puts the Afghanistan Cricket Board at odds with the rules of governing body the International Cricket Council (ICC). Buttler said sports and politics should be kept separate. "Political situations like this, as a player you're trying to be as informed as you can be," he told reporters ahead of the first T20 against India in Kolkata on Wednesday. "The experts know a lot more about it, so I've been trying to stay in dialogue with Rob Key (managing director of ECB) and the guys above to see how they see it." ALSO READ | 'It hurts to think...,' India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav on 2025 Champions Trophy snub "I don't think a boycott is the way to go about it," he added. "Certainly as a player, you don't want political situations to affect sport. We hope to go to the Champions Trophy and play that game and have a really good tournament." The ECB has resisted calls for a boycott, with chief executive Richard Gould saying instead he would "actively advocate" for collective action by the ICC instead. The ICC have allowed the Afghanistan men's team to keep competing in global competitions. England are clubbed with Afghanistan, Australia and South Africa in the group phase of the Champions Trophy, which begins on February 19. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Champions Trophy 2025: Jos Buttler rejects calls for England to boycott Afghanistan match

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Champions+Trophy+2025" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Champions Trophy 2025</a> is all set to kickstart in less than one month as eight nations compete in the tournament. The Champions Trophy will return after eight years with Pakistan being the official hosts and defending champions. On the other hand, teams like India, England and Australia will be favourites to win the Champions Trophy 2025. Ahead of the tournament, here&rsquo;s all you need to know, including squads, venues and other details.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">When will Champions Trophy 2025 begin?</h2>
The Champions Trophy 2025 began on Wednesday (Feb 19) with eight teams participating in the tournament.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">What will be the match timings of the Champions Trophy 2025, according to Indian Standard Time (IST)?</h2>
The Champions Trophy 2025 will begin at 2:30 PM IST for all the matches during the tournament.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">At what time will the toss take place during the Champions Trophy 2025?</h2>
The Champions Trophy 2025 matches toss will take place 30 minutes before the scheduled start of play, i.e. 2:00 PM IST.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">When will the Champions Trophy 2025 final be played?</h2>
The Champions Trophy 2025 final will be played on Sunday (March 9).
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Which venues will be used for Champions Trophy 2025?</h2>
The following venues will be in use for the Champions Trophy 2025:
National Stadium, Karachi
Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Which TV channels will telecast Champions Trophy 2025 matches in India?</h2>
Star Sports Network has the broadcasting rights to matches played in the Champions Trophy 2025.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">How to watch the live streaming of Champions Trophy 2025 matches in India?</h2>
Disney+Hotstar app will livestream the Champions Trophy 2025 matches in India.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Schedule for Champions Trophy 2025</h2>
19 Feb &ndash; Pakistan v New Zealand, National Stadium, Karachi
20 Feb &ndash; Bangladesh v India, Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
21 Feb &ndash; Afghanistan v South Africa, National Stadium, Karachi
22 Feb &ndash; Australia v England, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
23 Feb &ndash; Pakistan v India, Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
24 Feb - Bangladesh v New Zealand, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
25 Feb &ndash; Australia v South Africa, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
26 Feb &ndash; Afghanistan v England, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
27 Feb &ndash; Pakistan v Bangladesh, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
28 Feb &ndash; Afghanistan v Australia, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
1 Mar &ndash; South Africa v England, National Stadium, Karachi
2 Mar &ndash; New Zealand v India, Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
4 Mar &ndash; Semi-final 1, Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai*
5 Mar &ndash; Semi-final 2, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore**
9 Mar &ndash; Final - Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore***
All matches start at 14h00 Pakistan Standard Time
* Semi-final 1 will involve India if they qualify
**Semi-final 2 will involve Pakistan if they qualify
*** If India qualify for the final it will be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-india-squad-t20i-skipper-suryakumar-yadav-hurt-by-ct-2025-snub-8642071" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'It hurts to think...,' India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav on 2025 Champions Trophy snub</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Squads</h2>
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Group A<o:p></o:p></h3>
India: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill (VC), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja<o:p></o:p>
New Zealand: Mitchell Santner (captain), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O&rsquo;Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, Kane Williamson, and Will Young.<o:p></o:p>
Pakistan EXPECTED Squad: Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Afridi, Shadab Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Noman Ali, Sajid Khan, Naseem Shah, Ihsanullah, Mohammad Wasim Jr., Haris Rauf, Agha Salman, Usman Qadir, Tayyab Tahir, and Hasan Ali. [Not Official]<o:p></o:p>
Bangladesh: Najmul Hossain (captain), Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Soumya Sarkar, Parvez Hossain Emon, Mushfiqur Rahim, Tawhid Hridoy, Mahmudullah, Mehidy Hasan, Jaker Ali Anik, Rishad Hossain, Nasum Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Nahid Rana, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman<o:p></o:p>
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Group B<o:p></o:p></h3>
England: Jos Buttler (captain), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Ben Duckett, Jamie Overton, Jamie Smith, Liam Livingstone, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Saqib Mahmood, Phil Salt, Mark Wood<o:p></o:p>
Australia: Pat Cummins (captain), Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Josh Inglis (wicketkeeper), Alex Carey (wicketkeeper), Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Matthew Short, Aaron Hardie, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa<o:p></o:p>
South Africa: Temba Bavuma (captain), Heinrich Klaasen (wicketkeeper), Ryan Rickleton (WK), Aiden Markram, Tristan Stubbs, Tony De Zorzi, Rassie van der Dussen, David Miller, Keshav Maharaj, Tabraiz Shamsi, Kagiso Rabada, Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Lungi Ngidi, and Anrich Nortje<o:p></o:p>
Afghanistan: Hashmatullah Shahidi (captain), Rahmat Shah (vice-captain), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wicketkeeper), Ikram Alikhil (wicketkeeper), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan, AM Ghazanfar, Noor Ahmad, Fazal Haq Farooqi, Naveed Zadran and Farid Ahmad Malik.<o:p></o:p>
Reserves: Darwish Rasooli, Nangyal Kharoti, Bilal Sami

Sports, Cricket: The Champions Trophy will return after eight years, with Pakistan being the official hosts and defending champions and eight teams in the race. 

The Champions Trophy 2025 is all set to kickstart in less than one month as eight nations compete in the tournament. The Champions Trophy will return after eight years with Pakistan being the official hosts and defending champions. On the other hand, teams like India, England and Australia will be favourites to win the Champions Trophy 2025. Ahead of the tournament, here’s all you need to know, including squads, venues and other details. When will Champions Trophy 2025 begin? The Champions Trophy 2025 began on Wednesday (Feb 19) with eight teams participating in the tournament. What will be the match timings of the Champions Trophy 2025, according to Indian Standard Time (IST)? The Champions Trophy 2025 will begin at 2:30 PM IST for all the matches during the tournament. At what time will the toss take place during the Champions Trophy 2025? The Champions Trophy 2025 matches toss will take place 30 minutes before the scheduled start of play, i.e. 2:00 PM IST. When will the Champions Trophy 2025 final be played? The Champions Trophy 2025 final will be played on Sunday (March 9). Which venues will be used for Champions Trophy 2025? The following venues will be in use for the Champions Trophy 2025: National Stadium, Karachi Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi Which TV channels will telecast Champions Trophy 2025 matches in India? Star Sports Network has the broadcasting rights to matches played in the Champions Trophy 2025. How to watch the live streaming of Champions Trophy 2025 matches in India? Disney+Hotstar app will livestream the Champions Trophy 2025 matches in India. Schedule for Champions Trophy 2025 19 Feb – Pakistan v New Zealand, National Stadium, Karachi 20 Feb – Bangladesh v India, Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai 21 Feb – Afghanistan v South Africa, National Stadium, Karachi 22 Feb – Australia v England, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore 23 Feb – Pakistan v India, Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai 24 Feb - Bangladesh v New Zealand, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi 25 Feb – Australia v South Africa, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi 26 Feb – Afghanistan v England, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore 27 Feb – Pakistan v Bangladesh, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi 28 Feb – Afghanistan v Australia, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore 1 Mar – South Africa v England, National Stadium, Karachi 2 Mar – New Zealand v India, Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai 4 Mar – Semi-final 1, Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai* 5 Mar – Semi-final 2, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore** 9 Mar – Final - Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore*** All matches start at 14h00 Pakistan Standard Time * Semi-final 1 will involve India if they qualify **Semi-final 2 will involve Pakistan if they qualify *** If India qualify for the final it will be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai ALSO READ | 'It hurts to think...,' India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav on 2025 Champions Trophy snub Squads Group A India: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill (VC), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja New Zealand: Mitchell Santner (captain), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, Kane Williamson, and Will Young. Pakistan EXPECTED Squad: Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Afridi, Shadab Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Noman Ali, Sajid Khan, Naseem Shah, Ihsanullah, Mohammad Wasim Jr., Haris Rauf, Agha Salman, Usman Qadir, Tayyab Tahir, and Hasan Ali. [Not Official] Bangladesh: Najmul Hossain (captain), Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Soumya Sarkar, Parvez Hossain Emon, Mushfiqur Rahim, Tawhid Hridoy, Mahmudullah, Mehidy Hasan, Jaker Ali Anik, Rishad Hossain, Nasum Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Nahid Rana, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman Group B England: Jos Buttler (captain), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Ben Duckett, Jamie Overton, Jamie Smith, Liam Livingstone, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Saqib Mahmood, Phil Salt, Mark Wood Australia: Pat Cummins (captain), Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Josh Inglis (wicketkeeper), Alex Carey (wicketkeeper), Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Matthew Short, Aaron Hardie, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa South Africa: Temba Bavuma (captain), Heinrich Klaasen (wicketkeeper), Ryan Rickleton (WK), Aiden Markram, Tristan Stubbs, Tony De Zorzi, Rassie van der Dussen, David Miller, Keshav Maharaj, Tabraiz Shamsi, Kagiso Rabada, Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Lungi Ngidi, and Anrich Nortje Afghanistan: Hashmatullah Shahidi (captain), Rahmat Shah (vice-captain), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wicketkeeper), Ikram Alikhil (wicketkeeper), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan, AM Ghazanfar, Noor Ahmad, Fazal Haq Farooqi, Naveed Zadran and Farid Ahmad Malik. Reserves: Darwish Rasooli, Nangyal Kharoti, Bilal Sami

Champions Trophy 2025: All you need to know including teams, squads, prize money, broadcast

In a new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Champions Trophy 2025</a> controversy, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has accused the Board of Control for Cricket in India (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bcci" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">BCCI</a>) of 'bringing politics into cricket.' The latest row erupts nearly a month before the ICC tournament gets underway in Pakistan from February 19. India, however, will play all its matches in Dubai, UAE as per the agreed upon hybrid model with the ICC and the PCB.
<h2>New Champions Trophy 2025 Controversy</h2>
The BCCI, as per media reports, has refused to put the name of host nation, in this case Pakistan, on players' jersey. A PCB official, while speaking to the news agency IANS said hitting out at the BCCI for the stance.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-eng-1st-t201-kolkata-i-am-desperate-says-england-coach-brendon-mccullum-ahead-of-first-match-8640879">IND vs ENG 1st T201: 'I'm desperate for...,' says England coach Brendon McCullum ahead of first match</a>
"BCCI is bringing politics into cricket, which is not at all good for the game. They refused to travel to Pakistan. They don't want to send their captain (to Pakistan) for the opening ceremony, now there are reports that they don't want the host nation's (Pakistan) name printed on their jersey. We believe that the world governing body (ICC) will not let this happen and support Pakistan," the PCB official told the agency on condition of anonymity.
The Champions Trophy 2025 has been mired in controversy ever since the venue renovation was announced and the budget was passed by the ICC.
After India refused to travel to Pakistan due to political tensions, the PCB took a hard stance on hosting the entire tournament in the country. They, however, had to buckle down after several meetings with the BCCI and PCB post Jay Shah, former BCCI secretary, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/jay-shah-takes-over-as-youngest-ever-icc-chairman-780624" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">took charge as the ICC chairman</a>.
It was eventually decided that India will play its matches in Dubai including the semi-final and the final, if they make it that far. In return, Pakistan will also play its games at neutral venues and won't travel to India for ICC tournaments till 2027.

The Champions Trophy 2025 has been mired in controversy ever since the venue renovation was announced and the budget was passed by the ICC. Cricket Sports

In a new Champions Trophy 2025 controversy, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has accused the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) of 'bringing politics into cricket.' The latest row erupts nearly a month before the ICC tournament gets underway in Pakistan from February 19. India, however, will play all its matches in Dubai, UAE as per the agreed upon hybrid model with the ICC and the PCB. New Champions Trophy 2025 Controversy The BCCI, as per media reports, has refused to put the name of host nation, in this case Pakistan, on players' jersey. A PCB official, while speaking to the news agency IANS said hitting out at the BCCI for the stance. Also Read: IND vs ENG 1st T201: 'I'm desperate for...,' says England coach Brendon McCullum ahead of first match "BCCI is bringing politics into cricket, which is not at all good for the game. They refused to travel to Pakistan. They don't want to send their captain (to Pakistan) for the opening ceremony, now there are reports that they don't want the host nation's (Pakistan) name printed on their jersey. We believe that the world governing body (ICC) will not let this happen and support Pakistan," the PCB official told the agency on condition of anonymity. The Champions Trophy 2025 has been mired in controversy ever since the venue renovation was announced and the budget was passed by the ICC. After India refused to travel to Pakistan due to political tensions, the PCB took a hard stance on hosting the entire tournament in the country. They, however, had to buckle down after several meetings with the BCCI and PCB post Jay Shah, former BCCI secretary, took charge as the ICC chairman. It was eventually decided that India will play its matches in Dubai including the semi-final and the final, if they make it that far. In return, Pakistan will also play its games at neutral venues and won't travel to India for ICC tournaments till 2027.

2025 Champions Trophy: Another controversy as PCB accuses BCCI of ' bringing politics into cricket'

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has backed Mohammed Shami to come good in the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025. Speaking on Monday (Jan 20), Ganguly compared Shami to star bowler Jasprit Bumrah as team India bids for its third Champions Trophy title. According to the former captain, his fellow Bengal player is the second-best bowler after Bumrah and could prove vital if India are to lift the trophy for the third time.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Ganguly in awe of Shami</h2>
"I'm happy to see Shami fit because I think he's probably the best bowler after (Jasprit) Bumrah in the country...I know he'll be a bit nervous because he's playing cricket after a long time, especially with a knee injury, but the good thing is that he bowled a lot for Bengal in domestic cricket, which is going to help him in the games to come," Ganguly said while speaking to PTI news agency.
Veteran Shami will return to the Indian team for the first time since the 2023 ODI World Cup final where the hosts finished runners-up. Shami&rsquo;s performance was the highlight for India as he scalped 24 wickets in seven matches, with a best of 57/7 against New Zealand in the semis. He was the standout performer for India in the tournament before injury spoiled his entire 2024.
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The 34-year-old has since missed domestic and international cricket due to a serious knee inury that kept him away from action.
Shami did not play in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2024) for Gujarat Titans as they missed out on playoffs.
However, his return to the Indian team will be a boost, considering Bumrah is facing a race against time to be fit for the Champions Trophy.
Interestingly, India have opted against using Mohammed Siraj for the Champions Trophy as he was dropped in favour of Arshdeep Singh. The left-arm pacer will be part of the ODI set having been part of the Indian team during the T20 World Cup winning triumph.

Sports, Cricket: Speaking on Monday (Jan 20), Sourav Ganguly compared Mohammed Shami to star bowler Jasprit Bumrah as team India bids for its third Champions Trophy title.

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has backed Mohammed Shami to come good in the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025. Speaking on Monday (Jan 20), Ganguly compared Shami to star bowler Jasprit Bumrah as team India bids for its third Champions Trophy title. According to the former captain, his fellow Bengal player is the second-best bowler after Bumrah and could prove vital if India are to lift the trophy for the third time. Ganguly in awe of Shami "I'm happy to see Shami fit because I think he's probably the best bowler after (Jasprit) Bumrah in the country...I know he'll be a bit nervous because he's playing cricket after a long time, especially with a knee injury, but the good thing is that he bowled a lot for Bengal in domestic cricket, which is going to help him in the games to come," Ganguly said while speaking to PTI news agency. Veteran Shami will return to the Indian team for the first time since the 2023 ODI World Cup final where the hosts finished runners-up. Shami’s performance was the highlight for India as he scalped 24 wickets in seven matches, with a best of 57/7 against New Zealand in the semis. He was the standout performer for India in the tournament before injury spoiled his entire 2024. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli to play in Delhi's Ranji Trophy match vs Railways The 34-year-old has since missed domestic and international cricket due to a serious knee inury that kept him away from action. Shami did not play in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2024) for Gujarat Titans as they missed out on playoffs. However, his return to the Indian team will be a boost, considering Bumrah is facing a race against time to be fit for the Champions Trophy. Interestingly, India have opted against using Mohammed Siraj for the Champions Trophy as he was dropped in favour of Arshdeep Singh. The left-arm pacer will be part of the ODI set having been part of the Indian team during the T20 World Cup winning triumph.

Champions Trophy 2025: Sourav Ganguly in awe of Mohammed Shami - 'best bowler after...'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sanju-samson">Sanju Samson</a>'s non participation in the recently-concluded domestic 50-over tournament Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT) may have led to his non-selection in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">2025 Champions Trophy</a> India squad. Samson has featured in the T20I squad for India in the new set-up under Suryakumar Yadav and was a strong contender for a place in the 50-over squad. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), however, selected KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant as the two wicketkeepers in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bumrah-shami-return-to-15-man-india-squad-for-champions-trophy-karun-nair-misses-out-8632588">India Champions Trophy squad</a>.
<h2>Samson blasted by KCA president</h2>
Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) president Jayesh George also spoke about Samson's absence from VHT and said that the player failed to respect the association's policy.
Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/gambhir-wanted-samson-over-pant-pandya-to-be-vice-captain-for-champions-trophy-rohit-agarkar-denied-report-8634867" rel="dofollow">Coach Gambhir wanted Hardik Pandya as vice-captain but Rohit rejected - Report</a>
"I am not sure if Samson missing the tournament was the reason he was excluded. The reason he was not added in the Vijay Hazare squad was because he sent a one-line text saying he would not be available for the 30-member preparatory camp. We were all of the impression that he would be leading the team since he is our white-ball captain and had led in the SMAT season as well," George said in an interview with MediaOne.
&ldquo;So we went ahead and announced the squad and later he sent a message stating he is available for selection. Be it Sanju Samson or any other player, KCA has a policy in place that needs to be respected. We all know that Sanju does not need a camp to come into the squad, but is the Kerala team one that he can come and represent only when he feels like? How did Samson reach the Indian team, it was only through the KCA. That doesn't mean you turn up only when you feel like for the Kerala team,&rdquo; he added.
Samson has played 16 ODIs for India, the last of which was in December 2023 against South Africa, and he went on to score 108 - his only ton in the 50-over format. Overall, Samson has 510 runs in ODIs at an average of 56.66, including three fifties as well.

Samson has played 16 ODIs for India last of which came in December 2023 against South Africa and he went on to score 108 - his only ton in the 50-over format. Cricket Sports

Sanju Samson's non participation in the recently-concluded domestic 50-over tournament Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT) may have led to his non-selection in the 2025 Champions Trophy India squad. Samson has featured in the T20I squad for India in the new set-up under Suryakumar Yadav and was a strong contender for a place in the 50-over squad. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), however, selected KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant as the two wicketkeepers in India Champions Trophy squad. Samson blasted by KCA president Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) president Jayesh George also spoke about Samson's absence from VHT and said that the player failed to respect the association's policy. Also Read - Coach Gambhir wanted Hardik Pandya as vice-captain but Rohit rejected - Report "I am not sure if Samson missing the tournament was the reason he was excluded. The reason he was not added in the Vijay Hazare squad was because he sent a one-line text saying he would not be available for the 30-member preparatory camp. We were all of the impression that he would be leading the team since he is our white-ball captain and had led in the SMAT season as well," George said in an interview with MediaOne. “So we went ahead and announced the squad and later he sent a message stating he is available for selection. Be it Sanju Samson or any other player, KCA has a policy in place that needs to be respected. We all know that Sanju does not need a camp to come into the squad, but is the Kerala team one that he can come and represent only when he feels like? How did Samson reach the Indian team, it was only through the KCA. That doesn't mean you turn up only when you feel like for the Kerala team,” he added. Samson has played 16 ODIs for India, the last of which was in December 2023 against South Africa, and he went on to score 108 - his only ton in the 50-over format. Overall, Samson has 510 runs in ODIs at an average of 56.66, including three fifties as well.

Champions Trophy 2025: VHT absence reason behind Sanju Samson's India snub? KCA president responds

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bcci" rel="dofollow">BCCI</a>) issued a statement on Friday (Jan 17) that the Indian squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and for the three-match ODI series against England will be announced on Saturday (Jan 18).
The Indian team captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma">Rohit Sharma</a> and chairman of selectors, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ajit-agarkar">Ajit Agarkar</a>, will address a press conference in Mumbai. The press conference will start at 12:30 PM after the announcement of the squad.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-news-india-champions-trophy-squad-do-karun-nair-sanju-samson-jaiswal-nitish-reddy-axar-patel-have-chance-8621652">2025 Champions Trophy: India's probable squad for tournament</a>
"The Men's Selection Committee will select India's squad for the IDFC First Bank ODI series against England and the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 tomorrow in Mumbai. The Selection Meeting will be followed by a press conference, details of which are under," the BCCI statement read.
India will kick off their<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy"> Champions Trophy</a> 2025 campaign against Bangladesh on February 19 in Dubai which will be followed by a high-octane clash against their arch-rivals Pakistan on February 23. They will then lock horns with New Zealand on March 2.
With Rohit Sharma set to attend the press conference, any speculations on his possible exclusion are over. Virat Kohli, KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant should remain part of the Indian ODI set-up.
Ishan Kishan and Dhruv Jurel will fight for a place as back-up wicketkeeper with the former being considered after showcasing his form in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy.
The Men in Blue have won the Champions Trophy on two occasions in 2002 and 2013. In 2002 India shared the title with Sri Lanka while in 2013 they beat hosts England in the final. They had another opportunity to win the Champions Trophy in 2017 but lost to Pakistan in the final. &nbsp;

The Indian team captain Rohit Sharma and chairman of selectors, Ajit Agarkar, will address a press conference in Mumbai. The press conference will start at 12:30 PM after the announcement of the squad. Sports. Cricket.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) issued a statement on Friday (Jan 17) that the Indian squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and for the three-match ODI series against England will be announced on Saturday (Jan 18). The Indian team captain Rohit Sharma and chairman of selectors, Ajit Agarkar, will address a press conference in Mumbai. The press conference will start at 12:30 PM after the announcement of the squad. Also Read: 2025 Champions Trophy: India's probable squad for tournament "The Men's Selection Committee will select India's squad for the IDFC First Bank ODI series against England and the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 tomorrow in Mumbai. The Selection Meeting will be followed by a press conference, details of which are under," the BCCI statement read. India will kick off their Champions Trophy 2025 campaign against Bangladesh on February 19 in Dubai which will be followed by a high-octane clash against their arch-rivals Pakistan on February 23. They will then lock horns with New Zealand on March 2. With Rohit Sharma set to attend the press conference, any speculations on his possible exclusion are over. Virat Kohli, KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant should remain part of the Indian ODI set-up. Ishan Kishan and Dhruv Jurel will fight for a place as back-up wicketkeeper with the former being considered after showcasing his form in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy. The Men in Blue have won the Champions Trophy on two occasions in 2002 and 2013. In 2002 India shared the title with Sri Lanka while in 2013 they beat hosts England in the final. They had another opportunity to win the Champions Trophy in 2017 but lost to Pakistan in the final.

India squad for Champions Trophy 2025 to be announced on...

India batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/karun-nair">Karun Nair</a> is having a dream run in the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/vijay-hazare-trophy">Vijay Hazare Trophy</a> (VHT) - domestic 50-over tournament - with an average of 752 after five hundreds and one fifty in eight matches for Vidarbha. The batter says that he 'manifested something like this jokingly.'
Whatever may be the reason, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-india-squad-announcement-karun-nair-vijay-hazare-trophy-2025-average-752-runs-five-hundreds-8627592">Nair's performance could not have come at a better time</a>. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is looking to announce Champions Trophy 2025 squad and the team is dealing with batting failure in recent series, albeit in Test matches.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-champions-trophy-squad-england-odi-announcement-date-live-updates-rohit-gill-kohli-rahul-iyer-pandya-shami-bumrah-axar-jadeja-kuldeep-karun-liveblog-8627125" rel="dofollow">India Champions Trophy Squad Announcement Live Updates</a>
<h2>Manifested Jokingly, says Nair on Dream Run in VHT</h2>
"Funnily enough I said I think I need to score a hundred in every single innings to kind of get noticed," Nair said during a chat with ESPNcricinfo.
"I think I may have manifested something like this unknowingly in that chat with Robbie (Robin Uthappa), and that's coming into fruition," Nair mentions. "At the time [of recording the podcast], I was hurting a bit. After scoring runs in England and scoring nearly 700 runs [690 at the 2023-24 Ranji Trophy] to take Vidarbha into the finals, I did feel I could've got a look-in for the Duleep Trophy.
"Initially, right through the first half of the Ranji season I kept thinking about missed opportunities when I couldn't convert a few of my starts. But coming into the Vijay Hazare Trophy, I had completely forgotten about it, but I've just kept playing and have kept getting hundreds," he added.
He started the tournament with 112 not out against Jammu and Kashmir on December 23 and followed it up with 44 not out against Chhattisgarh three days later. In the next match against Chandigarh, Nair scored 163 not out&mdash;his highest in the tournament so far.
In the fourth match against Tamil Nadu, Nair hit 111 not out on December 31 to ring in the New Year in style. In the next VHT match against Uttar Pradesh, Nair scored 112 and was dismissed for the first time in the tournament. He didn't bat in the match against Mizoram before scoring another hundred on Sunday (Jan 12) and following it up with 88 not out in the semi-final on January 16.

Karun Nair averages 752 after five tons and a fifty in eight matches for Vidarbha in ongoing VHT. The batter says that he 'manifested something like this jokingly.' Sports Cricket

India batter Karun Nair is having a dream run in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT) - domestic 50-over tournament - with an average of 752 after five hundreds and one fifty in eight matches for Vidarbha. The batter says that he 'manifested something like this jokingly.' Whatever may be the reason, Nair's performance could not have come at a better time. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is looking to announce Champions Trophy 2025 squad and the team is dealing with batting failure in recent series, albeit in Test matches. Also Read: India Champions Trophy Squad Announcement Live Updates Manifested Jokingly, says Nair on Dream Run in VHT "Funnily enough I said I think I need to score a hundred in every single innings to kind of get noticed," Nair said during a chat with ESPNcricinfo. "I think I may have manifested something like this unknowingly in that chat with Robbie (Robin Uthappa), and that's coming into fruition," Nair mentions. "At the time [of recording the podcast], I was hurting a bit. After scoring runs in England and scoring nearly 700 runs [690 at the 2023-24 Ranji Trophy] to take Vidarbha into the finals, I did feel I could've got a look-in for the Duleep Trophy. "Initially, right through the first half of the Ranji season I kept thinking about missed opportunities when I couldn't convert a few of my starts. But coming into the Vijay Hazare Trophy, I had completely forgotten about it, but I've just kept playing and have kept getting hundreds," he added. He started the tournament with 112 not out against Jammu and Kashmir on December 23 and followed it up with 44 not out against Chhattisgarh three days later. In the next match against Chandigarh, Nair scored 163 not out—his highest in the tournament so far. In the fourth match against Tamil Nadu, Nair hit 111 not out on December 31 to ring in the New Year in style. In the next VHT match against Uttar Pradesh, Nair scored 112 and was dismissed for the first time in the tournament. He didn't bat in the match against Mizoram before scoring another hundred on Sunday (Jan 12) and following it up with 88 not out in the semi-final on January 16.

'Manifested jokingly,' says Karun Nair on averaging 752 in Vijay Hazare Trophy

India spinner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kuldeep-yadav">Kuldeep Yadav</a> is gearing up for a comeback ahead of the white-ball series against England starting January 22 and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a> starting February 19.
Kuldeep was not available for selection for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy due to injury. After recovering from a chronic left groin issue, Kuldeep shared a video of his bowling practice on social media platform Instagram.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/akash-deep-opens-up-on-virat-kohlis-kind-gesture-after-gabba-test-says-he-offered-me-8625981">Akash Deep opens up on Virat Kohli's kind gesture after Gabba Test, says 'he offered me...'</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal">Kuldeep nearing a milestone<o:p></o:p></h2>
When Kuldeep returns to action, he will be eyeing an all-important milestone of 300 international wickets.
In 159 appearances, the spinner has taken 297 wickets at an average of 22.50, with the best bowling figures of 6/25. He has also taken eight five-wicket hauls in international cricket.
After the end of the test series against New Zealand, Kuldeep was referred to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=BCCI" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">BCCI</a>) Centre of Excellence for his issue. His last appearance for India was in the first test against New Zealand in October last year, where he took three wickets.
Kuldeep is not part of the squad for the five-match T20I series against England, starting January 22 in Kolkata, while the three-match ODI series will start from February 6 onwards. The next tournament awaiting the Men in Blue will be the ICC Champions Trophy, starting February 19 till March 9.
The eight-team event will feature Afghanistan, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/australia-cricket" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Australia</a>, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand and South Africa, alongside hosts Pakistan.
India won't travel to Pakistan to play in the Champions Trophy despite the latter being announced as the hosts by the International Cricket Council (ICC) and BCCI confirmed that they have not received the required permission from the Indian government to send their team to Pakistan.<o:p></o:p>
Due to India's reluctance, the tournament is set to be played in a hybrid format, with Pakistan hosting most of the matches, but all of India's group games and the first semi-final to be played in Dubai.
The highly anticipated India-Pakistan match will be held on February 23 in Dubai. The final of the Champions Trophy will be played on March 9.

Sports. Cricket. After recovering from a chronic left groin issue, Kuldeep shared a video of his bowling practice on social media platform Instagram.

India spinner Kuldeep Yadav is gearing up for a comeback ahead of the white-ball series against England starting January 22 and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 starting February 19. Kuldeep was not available for selection for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy due to injury. After recovering from a chronic left groin issue, Kuldeep shared a video of his bowling practice on social media platform Instagram. Also Read: Akash Deep opens up on Virat Kohli's kind gesture after Gabba Test, says 'he offered me...' Kuldeep nearing a milestone When Kuldeep returns to action, he will be eyeing an all-important milestone of 300 international wickets. In 159 appearances, the spinner has taken 297 wickets at an average of 22.50, with the best bowling figures of 6/25. He has also taken eight five-wicket hauls in international cricket. After the end of the test series against New Zealand, Kuldeep was referred to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Centre of Excellence for his issue. His last appearance for India was in the first test against New Zealand in October last year, where he took three wickets. Kuldeep is not part of the squad for the five-match T20I series against England, starting January 22 in Kolkata, while the three-match ODI series will start from February 6 onwards. The next tournament awaiting the Men in Blue will be the ICC Champions Trophy, starting February 19 till March 9. The eight-team event will feature Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand and South Africa, alongside hosts Pakistan. India won't travel to Pakistan to play in the Champions Trophy despite the latter being announced as the hosts by the International Cricket Council (ICC) and BCCI confirmed that they have not received the required permission from the Indian government to send their team to Pakistan. Due to India's reluctance, the tournament is set to be played in a hybrid format, with Pakistan hosting most of the matches, but all of India's group games and the first semi-final to be played in Dubai. The highly anticipated India-Pakistan match will be held on February 23 in Dubai. The final of the Champions Trophy will be played on March 9.

Champions Trophy 2025: Kuldeep Yadav hits nets ahead of squad selection meeting

India coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gautam-gambhir" rel="dofollow">Gautam Gambhir</a>'s position could be in trouble if India doesn't perform well at the upcoming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025</a>. The news comes after India's consecutive Test series loss - 0-3 whitewash at home against New Zealand followed by 1-3 against Australia Down Under.
<h2>Gambhir's Job in Danger?</h2>
"If India doesn't do well in the Champions Trophy, the head coach's position could become untenable. Yes, his contract runs till the 2027 World Cup but the process of evaluation continues. Sport is result-oriented and till now, Gambhir hasn't given any tangible results," said a senior BCCI source, on the condition of anonymity, as quoted by news agency PTI.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-news-india-champions-trophy-squad-do-karun-nair-sanju-samson-jaiswal-nitish-reddy-axar-patel-have-chance-8621652" rel="dofollow">2025 Champions Trophy: India's probable squad for tournament</a>
Gambhir took charge of Indian cricket following Rahul Dravid's resignation from the post after India's T20 World Cup win in June 2024. Under Gambhir, India also lost an ODI series in Sri Lanka for the first time in 27 years before losing the two Test series.
There's also a report of rift between the players and coach, as Gambhir wants to end the superstar culture in the team, which has been going on for years now.
"Gambhir wants to end the superstar culture that has been prevalent for so many years now. As captain of Kolkata Knight Riders in 2012, he had dropped Brendon McCullum from the playing XI for the IPL final against CSK.
"He has come here to dismantle the superstar culture and that's what has caused discomfort for some playing members," PTI reported quoting a source who has been watching Gambhir's style of working closely.
The Board on Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is dealing with a lot, including the failures. India's two most senior batters, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, whose form is one of those issues.
Both the batters are facing questions over their future after their lackluster performance on the Australia tour. In addition, the board is also looking to announce their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-news-india-champions-trophy-squad-do-karun-nair-sanju-samson-jaiswal-nitish-reddy-axar-patel-have-chance-8621652" rel="dofollow">squad for the Champions Trophy</a> 2025, keeping the future of Indian cricket in mind.
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Gambhir took charge post Dravid's resignation after India's T20 World Cup win in June 2024. Under him, India lost ODI series in SL before losing the two Test series. Cricket Sports

India coach Gautam Gambhir's position could be in trouble if India doesn't perform well at the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025. The news comes after India's consecutive Test series loss - 0-3 whitewash at home against New Zealand followed by 1-3 against Australia Down Under. Gambhir's Job in Danger? "If India doesn't do well in the Champions Trophy, the head coach's position could become untenable. Yes, his contract runs till the 2027 World Cup but the process of evaluation continues. Sport is result-oriented and till now, Gambhir hasn't given any tangible results," said a senior BCCI source, on the condition of anonymity, as quoted by news agency PTI. Also Read: 2025 Champions Trophy: India's probable squad for tournament Gambhir took charge of Indian cricket following Rahul Dravid's resignation from the post after India's T20 World Cup win in June 2024. Under Gambhir, India also lost an ODI series in Sri Lanka for the first time in 27 years before losing the two Test series. There's also a report of rift between the players and coach, as Gambhir wants to end the superstar culture in the team, which has been going on for years now. "Gambhir wants to end the superstar culture that has been prevalent for so many years now. As captain of Kolkata Knight Riders in 2012, he had dropped Brendon McCullum from the playing XI for the IPL final against CSK. "He has come here to dismantle the superstar culture and that's what has caused discomfort for some playing members," PTI reported quoting a source who has been watching Gambhir's style of working closely. The Board on Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is dealing with a lot, including the failures. India's two most senior batters, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, whose form is one of those issues. Both the batters are facing questions over their future after their lackluster performance on the Australia tour. In addition, the board is also looking to announce their squad for the Champions Trophy 2025, keeping the future of Indian cricket in mind.

India coach Gautam Gambhir's job in danger? 2025 Champions Trophy result may decide his fate

The Board on Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to delay the announcement of the India squad for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/2025-champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">2025 Champions Trophy</a>. The date to announce the provisional squad for the tournament, which starts February 19, is January 12.
"The BCCI, citing recent commitments in Australia for the Test series, is expected to request for more time. It is likely that the provisional Champions Trophy squad, which will predominantly feature players from the three home ODIs against England, will be announced about a week later, around January 18-19," said a report in cricket news media outlet Cricbuzz.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-champions-trophy-squad-news-india-ct-2025-probable-squad-rohit-to-lead-8600173" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">India Champions Trophy 2025 squad - Who all can make the cut?</a>
For most tournaments, the ICC asks for provisional squad to be announced about four weeks in advance with an option to change it later. For the 2025 Champions Trophy, however, the apex body has asked for the provisional squad to be named five weeks in advance.
<h2>India 2025 Champions Trophy Team&nbsp;</h2>
In all likelihood, the BCCI is expected to announce the same India squad for 2025 Champions Trophy which will play against England in ODI series from February 6-12.
All the major names including Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah are expected to return for the England ODI series as well as 2025 Champions Trophy.
Among a few names over which the BCCI needs some thinking are pacer Mohammed Shami, all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy and opener Yashasvi Jaiswal.
While Shami is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-cricket-news-india-mohammed-shami-sparks-comeback-talks-in-new-video-8599847">expected to make a comeback</a> to international cricket for the first time since ODI World Cup 2023 Final, Jaiswal could be picked as the backup opener in the side. Reddy, on the other hand, could find it hard to make the cut with Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube ahead of him it the order.
India, however, could pick Axar Patel and Washington Sundar spin all-rounders as they play all its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-icc-releases-full-schedule-of-tournament-check-all-details-inside-786503">matches in Dubai, UAE</a> as agreed with the Pakistan Cricket Board and ICC under hybrid model conditions.

In all likelihood, the BCCI is expected to announce the same India squad for 2025 Champions Trophy which will play against England in ODI series from February 6-12. Sports Cricket

The Board on Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to delay the announcement of the India squad for 2025 Champions Trophy. The date to announce the provisional squad for the tournament, which starts February 19, is January 12. "The BCCI, citing recent commitments in Australia for the Test series, is expected to request for more time. It is likely that the provisional Champions Trophy squad, which will predominantly feature players from the three home ODIs against England, will be announced about a week later, around January 18-19," said a report in cricket news media outlet Cricbuzz. Also Read: India Champions Trophy 2025 squad - Who all can make the cut? For most tournaments, the ICC asks for provisional squad to be announced about four weeks in advance with an option to change it later. For the 2025 Champions Trophy, however, the apex body has asked for the provisional squad to be named five weeks in advance. India 2025 Champions Trophy Team In all likelihood, the BCCI is expected to announce the same India squad for 2025 Champions Trophy which will play against England in ODI series from February 6-12. All the major names including Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah are expected to return for the England ODI series as well as 2025 Champions Trophy. Among a few names over which the BCCI needs some thinking are pacer Mohammed Shami, all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy and opener Yashasvi Jaiswal. While Shami is expected to make a comeback to international cricket for the first time since ODI World Cup 2023 Final, Jaiswal could be picked as the backup opener in the side. Reddy, on the other hand, could find it hard to make the cut with Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube ahead of him it the order. India, however, could pick Axar Patel and Washington Sundar spin all-rounders as they play all its matches in Dubai, UAE as agreed with the Pakistan Cricket Board and ICC under hybrid model conditions.

Champions Trophy 2025: BCCI may delay India squad announcement by a week

India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is not an automatic choice in the One-Day team, an unnamed BCCI source has hinted ahead of the squad announcement for the England series and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Despite his long-standing reputation as the best spin-bowling all-rounder in the country for over a decade, the decision-makers are contemplating moving on from him, with all eyes on the 2027 ODI World Cup build-up.
Jadeja, 36, played three Tests Down Under, scoring 135 runs and picking four wickets &ndash; an underwhelming performance from the first-choice player. Although he scored a fifty in the second innings at the Gabba, helping India avoid the follow-on and eventually save the match, he never looked in his element during his brief stays at the crease in the last two Tests.
Meanwhile, as per a Times of India (TOI) report, Jadeja&rsquo;s place in the ODI side is in jeopardy, with the selectors keen on keeping a tab on his international performance in the upcoming tournaments, should he get picked.&nbsp;
&ldquo;It's all about when the selectors decide the transition needs to kick in. They will discuss if they want to go with a safe option in (Ravindra) Jadeja or move on right now,&rdquo; the source said as quoted by TOI.
The source continued saying there is an urge within the selection committee to move on from Jadeja in the ODIs, suggesting the selectors could have a tough time in zeroing in on the final squad for England ODIs and Champions Trophy 2025.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/kl-rahul-to-skip-england-series-but-remains-available-for-champions-trophy-2025-bcci-8608133" rel="dofollow">KL Rahul takes break from cricket following draining tour Down Under</a>
&ldquo;Even in Test cricket, he has struggled to get going, though his bowling has been steady,&rdquo; the source added. &ldquo;There is an urge to move on from him, especially in the ODI format. It will be a tough call in the coming days.&rdquo;
The all-rounder, however, is expected to retain his place in the Test side, with the away England Tests scheduled for the June-August window later this year.
&ldquo;When it comes to Test cricket, Jadeja is still fairly in contention for the England tour due to lack of experience in the middle order,&rdquo; the BCCI source added.
<h2>Squad announcement soon</h2>
While KL Rahul has asked the selection committee to exempt him for the home series against England, consisting of five T20Is and three ODIs, the selectors would take a call on the pace duo of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami, who are nursing injuries.&nbsp;
With the England series squad announcement just around the corner, the selectors are also working on finalising the team for the eight-team tournament in Pakistan and the UAE beginning February 19.&nbsp;
Given India is playing all its matches in Dubai, including the knockouts, should they qualify, the selectors will consider the playing conditions, pitch nature and the players' past performances before releasing the squad, the announcement of which nears.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, cricket: Per the source, there is an urge within the selection committee to move on from Jadeja in the ODIs, suggesting a tough time for selectors in naming squads.

India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is not an automatic choice in the One-Day team, an unnamed BCCI source has hinted ahead of the squad announcement for the England series and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Despite his long-standing reputation as the best spin-bowling all-rounder in the country for over a decade, the decision-makers are contemplating moving on from him, with all eyes on the 2027 ODI World Cup build-up. Jadeja, 36, played three Tests Down Under, scoring 135 runs and picking four wickets – an underwhelming performance from the first-choice player. Although he scored a fifty in the second innings at the Gabba, helping India avoid the follow-on and eventually save the match, he never looked in his element during his brief stays at the crease in the last two Tests. Meanwhile, as per a Times of India (TOI) report, Jadeja’s place in the ODI side is in jeopardy, with the selectors keen on keeping a tab on his international performance in the upcoming tournaments, should he get picked. “It's all about when the selectors decide the transition needs to kick in. They will discuss if they want to go with a safe option in (Ravindra) Jadeja or move on right now,” the source said as quoted by TOI. The source continued saying there is an urge within the selection committee to move on from Jadeja in the ODIs, suggesting the selectors could have a tough time in zeroing in on the final squad for England ODIs and Champions Trophy 2025. Also read | KL Rahul takes break from cricket following draining tour Down Under “Even in Test cricket, he has struggled to get going, though his bowling has been steady,” the source added. “There is an urge to move on from him, especially in the ODI format. It will be a tough call in the coming days.” The all-rounder, however, is expected to retain his place in the Test side, with the away England Tests scheduled for the June-August window later this year. “When it comes to Test cricket, Jadeja is still fairly in contention for the England tour due to lack of experience in the middle order,” the BCCI source added. Squad announcement soon While KL Rahul has asked the selection committee to exempt him for the home series against England, consisting of five T20Is and three ODIs, the selectors would take a call on the pace duo of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami, who are nursing injuries. With the England series squad announcement just around the corner, the selectors are also working on finalising the team for the eight-team tournament in Pakistan and the UAE beginning February 19. Given India is playing all its matches in Dubai, including the knockouts, should they qualify, the selectors will consider the playing conditions, pitch nature and the players' past performances before releasing the squad, the announcement of which nears. (With inputs from agencies)

BCCI selectors keen to ‘move on’ from Ravindra Jadeja in ODIs – Report

KL Rahul, the star Indian keeper-batter, will miss the home white-ball series against England starting January 22 but has made himself available for selection for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 beginning February 19 in the UAE (and Pakistan). Per a BCCI source, Rahul asked the selection committee not to consider him for the England bilateral series as he seeks a break from cricket following a draining tour Down Under.
England is touring India for five T20Is and three ODIs, with the Eden Gardens in Kolkata hosting the series opener under the lights.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/he-doesnt-get-beaten-in-nets-he-has-the-best-defense-ravi-ashwin-lauds-test-star-rishabh-pant-8607824" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;He doesn&rsquo;t get beaten, he has the best defence,&rsquo; Ashwin lauds Pant</a>
"He has sought a break for the England series, but he will be available for selection for the Champions Trophy," a BCCI source said in a chat with PTI.
Rahul played all five Tests in Australia, scoring 276 runs &ndash; the third-most for India at an average of 30.66. Picked as the middle-order batter, Rahul returned to playing at the top at the Optus Stadium in Perth in regular captain Rohit Sharma's absence; Rohit missed the first Test for personal reasons.
Meanwhile, Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal added 202 runs for the first wicket in the second innings, laying a foundation for India&rsquo;s highest team total on tour (487-6 dec); leading them to draw first blood in the five-match series. Though he opened in three Tests since, besides playing at number three in the Boxing Day Test, Rahul&rsquo;s numbers and form dipped as India conceded the lead and lost the series 1-3.
<h2>Who else, if not Rahul?</h2>
With Rishabh Pant out with severe injuries he sustained in a road mishap in late 2022, KL Rahul kept wickets and played a handy role in helping India reach the 2023 ODI World Cup final, where they lost to Australia. However, with Pant now back in the scheme of things, he might return to the ODI side, with T20 star Sanju Samson considered his backup.
Sanju&rsquo;s recent run in the South Africa T20Is, wherein he scored two centuries in two matches, will push his case for an ODI return.&nbsp;
Although the selectors will be keen on retaining Rahul in the ODI side, considering his contribution during the past two multi-team events &ndash; the 2023 Asia Cup and the ODI World Cup later that year, Pant&rsquo;s comeback could pressure the selectors to take a tricky call for ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Should Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee pick Rahul as the first-choice keeper, Pant could also make the cut as his backup.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, cricket: England is touring India for five T20Is and three ODIs, with the Eden Gardens in Kolkata hosting the series opener under the lights. 

KL Rahul, the star Indian keeper-batter, will miss the home white-ball series against England starting January 22 but has made himself available for selection for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 beginning February 19 in the UAE (and Pakistan). Per a BCCI source, Rahul asked the selection committee not to consider him for the England bilateral series as he seeks a break from cricket following a draining tour Down Under. England is touring India for five T20Is and three ODIs, with the Eden Gardens in Kolkata hosting the series opener under the lights. Also read | ‘He doesn’t get beaten, he has the best defence,’ Ashwin lauds Pant "He has sought a break for the England series, but he will be available for selection for the Champions Trophy," a BCCI source said in a chat with PTI. Rahul played all five Tests in Australia, scoring 276 runs – the third-most for India at an average of 30.66. Picked as the middle-order batter, Rahul returned to playing at the top at the Optus Stadium in Perth in regular captain Rohit Sharma's absence; Rohit missed the first Test for personal reasons. Meanwhile, Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal added 202 runs for the first wicket in the second innings, laying a foundation for India’s highest team total on tour (487-6 dec); leading them to draw first blood in the five-match series. Though he opened in three Tests since, besides playing at number three in the Boxing Day Test, Rahul’s numbers and form dipped as India conceded the lead and lost the series 1-3. Who else, if not Rahul? With Rishabh Pant out with severe injuries he sustained in a road mishap in late 2022, KL Rahul kept wickets and played a handy role in helping India reach the 2023 ODI World Cup final, where they lost to Australia. However, with Pant now back in the scheme of things, he might return to the ODI side, with T20 star Sanju Samson considered his backup. Sanju’s recent run in the South Africa T20Is, wherein he scored two centuries in two matches, will push his case for an ODI return. Although the selectors will be keen on retaining Rahul in the ODI side, considering his contribution during the past two multi-team events – the 2023 Asia Cup and the ODI World Cup later that year, Pant’s comeback could pressure the selectors to take a tricky call for ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Should Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee pick Rahul as the first-choice keeper, Pant could also make the cut as his backup. (With inputs from agencies)

KL Rahul takes break from cricket following draining tour Down Under

Days after British politicians urged their side to boycott the Afghanistan clash in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Champions+Trophy+2025" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Champions Trophy 2025</a>, South Africa has also joined the conversation. Speaking on Thursday (Jan 9), South Africa Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie called his side to boycott the Afghanistan clash in the Champions Trophy 2025. This backlash comes after Afghanistan&rsquo;s Taliban reign continued to outlaw the participation of women in sports.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">South Africa sports minister calls for Afghanistan clash boycott</h2>
&ldquo;Cricket South Africa, the federations of other countries, and the ICC (International Cricket Council) will have to think carefully about the message the sport of cricket wishes to send the world, and especially the women in sports,&rdquo; McKenzie stated.
&ldquo;It is not for me as the sports minister to make the final decision on whether South Africa should honour cricketing fixtures against Afghanistan. If it was my decision, then it certainly would not happen.&rdquo;
On Monday, more than 160 British politicians took a stand against Afghanistan&rsquo;s Taliban regime's assault on women's rights.
England will face Afghanistan on February 26 in Lahore in the Champions Trophy while South Africa will take on the same opponents on February 22.
However, the England and Welsh Cricket Board (ECB) denied boycotting the fixture arranged by the International Cricket Council (ICC).
ECB CEO Richard Gould responded by suggesting a uniform approach from all member nations is the best way forward.
"The ECB strongly condemns the treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan under the Taliban regime," he said.
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-makes-shocking-revealtion-claims-he-was-poisoned-before-2022-australian-open-8606380" aria-label="Novak Djokovic makes shocking revelation, claims he was 'poisoned' before 2022 Australian Open" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Novak Djokovic makes shocking revelation, claims he was 'poisoned' before 2022 Australian Open</a>
"The ICC Constitution mandates that all member nations are committed to the growth and development of women's cricket.
In line with this commitment, the ECB has maintained its position of not scheduling any bilateral cricket matches against Afghanistan.&rdquo;
Cricket South Africa (CSA) is yet to respond to the call with ICC and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) who are the hosts closely monitoring the situation.<o:p></o:p>
(With Inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Speaking on Thursday (Jan 9), South Africa Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie called his side to boycott the Afghanistan clash in the Champions Trophy 2025. 

Days after British politicians urged their side to boycott the Afghanistan clash in Champions Trophy 2025, South Africa has also joined the conversation. Speaking on Thursday (Jan 9), South Africa Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie called his side to boycott the Afghanistan clash in the Champions Trophy 2025. This backlash comes after Afghanistan’s Taliban reign continued to outlaw the participation of women in sports. South Africa sports minister calls for Afghanistan clash boycott “Cricket South Africa, the federations of other countries, and the ICC (International Cricket Council) will have to think carefully about the message the sport of cricket wishes to send the world, and especially the women in sports,” McKenzie stated. “It is not for me as the sports minister to make the final decision on whether South Africa should honour cricketing fixtures against Afghanistan. If it was my decision, then it certainly would not happen.” On Monday, more than 160 British politicians took a stand against Afghanistan’s Taliban regime's assault on women's rights. England will face Afghanistan on February 26 in Lahore in the Champions Trophy while South Africa will take on the same opponents on February 22. However, the England and Welsh Cricket Board (ECB) denied boycotting the fixture arranged by the International Cricket Council (ICC). ECB CEO Richard Gould responded by suggesting a uniform approach from all member nations is the best way forward. "The ECB strongly condemns the treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan under the Taliban regime," he said. ALSO READ | Novak Djokovic makes shocking revelation, claims he was 'poisoned' before 2022 Australian Open "The ICC Constitution mandates that all member nations are committed to the growth and development of women's cricket. In line with this commitment, the ECB has maintained its position of not scheduling any bilateral cricket matches against Afghanistan.” Cricket South Africa (CSA) is yet to respond to the call with ICC and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) who are the hosts closely monitoring the situation. (With Inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: After UK, South Africa minister urges Afghanistan clash boycott

The Champions Trophy 2025 is nearly a month and a half away and India have a lot to ponder before announcing their squad. The teams are expected to announce the provisional squad by January 12 as per the International Cricket Council (ICC) rules. The tournament is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-icc-releases-full-schedule-of-tournament-check-all-details-inside-786503">scheduled from February 19 to March 9</a> in Pakistan with India set to play its matches in Dubai, UAE.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-cricket-news-india-mohammed-shami-sparks-comeback-talks-in-new-video-8599847" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy: Mohammed Shami 'All Set to Take on the World'</a>
<h2>India Champions Trophy Squad</h2>
There are several questions that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has to answer for selecting the India <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy 2025</a> squad. The board would likely be announcing the same squad for the upcoming three-ODI England series as well which starts on February 6 and ends on February 12.
The final changes may also come after the conclusion of the England series which also consists of five T20Is and begins on January 22. As for the Champions Trophy squad, these are the players who can make the cut:
India Champions Trophy Squad batters: Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill could be India's opening pair with Yashasvi Jaiswal as the backup option. Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, and KL Rahul are the most probable players to play in the middle order.&nbsp;
India Champions Trophy Squad All-rounders: Hardik Pandya, Nitish Reddy and Shivam Dube could be the medium-pace bowling all-rounders, while Axar Patel and Washington Sundar can be the spin-bowling all-rounders.
India Champions Trophy Squad Wicketkeeper: KL Rahul could end up as India's specialist keeper, with Rishabh Pant a probable backup option.
India Champions Trophy Squad Spinners: Kuldeep Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi and Varun Chakravarthy could be vying for one or two specialist spinner positions in the squad.
India Champions Trophy Squad Pacers: Mohammed Shami, if fit, could be one of the pacers along with Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh and Mohammed Siraj.
There are reports doing the rounds that Bumrah could be named as skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/jasprit-bumrah-to-be-rohit-sharmas-deputy-in-champions-trophy-2025-report-8595262">Rohit Sharma's deputy</a> for the tournament.

Cricket Sports India Champions Trophy 2025 squad: The BCCI would likely be announcing the same squad for the upcoming three-ODI England series as well

The Champions Trophy 2025 is nearly a month and a half away and India have a lot to ponder before announcing their squad. The teams are expected to announce the provisional squad by January 12 as per the International Cricket Council (ICC) rules. The tournament is scheduled from February 19 to March 9 in Pakistan with India set to play its matches in Dubai, UAE. Also Read: Champions Trophy: Mohammed Shami 'All Set to Take on the World' India Champions Trophy Squad There are several questions that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has to answer for selecting the India Champions Trophy 2025 squad. The board would likely be announcing the same squad for the upcoming three-ODI England series as well which starts on February 6 and ends on February 12. The final changes may also come after the conclusion of the England series which also consists of five T20Is and begins on January 22. As for the Champions Trophy squad, these are the players who can make the cut: India Champions Trophy Squad batters: Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill could be India's opening pair with Yashasvi Jaiswal as the backup option. Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, and KL Rahul are the most probable players to play in the middle order. India Champions Trophy Squad All-rounders: Hardik Pandya, Nitish Reddy and Shivam Dube could be the medium-pace bowling all-rounders, while Axar Patel and Washington Sundar can be the spin-bowling all-rounders. India Champions Trophy Squad Wicketkeeper: KL Rahul could end up as India's specialist keeper, with Rishabh Pant a probable backup option. India Champions Trophy Squad Spinners: Kuldeep Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi and Varun Chakravarthy could be vying for one or two specialist spinner positions in the squad. India Champions Trophy Squad Pacers: Mohammed Shami, if fit, could be one of the pacers along with Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh and Mohammed Siraj. There are reports doing the rounds that Bumrah could be named as skipper Rohit Sharma's deputy for the tournament.

India Champions Trophy 2025 squad - Who all can make the cut?

After missing out on the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), India pacer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mohammed-shami" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Mohammed Shami</a> is aiming a comeback in the team ahead of upcoming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy-2025">Champions Trophy 2025</a>. The ICC tournament is scheduled to be played from February 19 to March 9 in Pakistan with India's matches scheduled to be held in Dubai, UAE.
Shami has been away from international cricket since ODI World Cup 2023 Final where he picked up an ankle injure during India's loss to title-winners Australia.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/jasprit-bumrah-to-be-rohit-sharmas-deputy-in-champions-trophy-2025-report-8595262" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Jasprit Bumrah to be Rohit&rsquo;s deputy in Champions Trophy 2025 &ndash; Report</a>
<h2>Shami Sparks Comeback Talks</h2>
India missed Mohammed Shami dearly in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bgt">BGT 2024-25 in Australia</a> - which they lost 1-3 - their first in a decade. The pacer, however, posted a video on social media platform X on Tuesday (Jan 7) with the caption 'Precision, Pace, and Passion, All Set to Take on the World!' Have a look at the video below:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Precision, Pace, and Passion, All Set to Take on the World! 🌍💪 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Shami?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Shami</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/gIEfJidChX">pic.twitter.com/gIEfJidChX</a>
&mdash; 𝕸𝖔𝖍𝖆𝖒𝖒𝖆𝖉 𝖘𝖍𝖆𝖒𝖎 (@MdShami11) <a href="https://twitter.com/MdShami11/status/1876591684315918838?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In Shami's absence only Jasprit Bumrah had an impact as a bowler for India in the BGT. After Bumrah, who was named Player of the Series with 32 wickets, Mohammed Siraj with 20 wickets was the next best and Prasidh Krishna, who played only one Test out of five, was third best with six wickets.
As for Shami, there were talks that he will join the squad ahead of the fourth Test on the Boxing Day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) but wasn't cleared by the Indian cricket board.
Most recently, Shami played two matches in the domestic 50-over cup Vijay Hazare Trophy for his state Bengal and took one wicket in each of the matches.
Before that, Shami had played nine games in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) T20 cup - taking 11 wickets in total with a best of 3/21.
Shami's comeback, whenever happens, will be a boost for India as he was the highest wicket-taker in the ODI World Cup 2023. He had come in place of Hardik Pandya after the all-rounder got injured and played pivotal role in India reaching the final with 24 wickets in seven games.

Cricket Sports Champions Trophy 2025: India pacer Mohammed Shami sparks comeback talks in new video as the team aims to put BGT loss behind them.

After missing out on the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), India pacer Mohammed Shami is aiming a comeback in the team ahead of upcoming Champions Trophy 2025. The ICC tournament is scheduled to be played from February 19 to March 9 in Pakistan with India's matches scheduled to be held in Dubai, UAE. Shami has been away from international cricket since ODI World Cup 2023 Final where he picked up an ankle injure during India's loss to title-winners Australia. Also Read: Jasprit Bumrah to be Rohit’s deputy in Champions Trophy 2025 – Report Shami Sparks Comeback Talks India missed Mohammed Shami dearly in BGT 2024-25 in Australia - which they lost 1-3 - their first in a decade. The pacer, however, posted a video on social media platform X on Tuesday (Jan 7) with the caption 'Precision, Pace, and Passion, All Set to Take on the World!' Have a look at the video below: Precision, Pace, and Passion, All Set to Take on the World! 🌍💪 #Shami #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/gIEfJidChX — 𝕸𝖔𝖍𝖆𝖒𝖒𝖆𝖉 𝖘𝖍𝖆𝖒𝖎 (@MdShami11) January 7, 2025 In Shami's absence only Jasprit Bumrah had an impact as a bowler for India in the BGT. After Bumrah, who was named Player of the Series with 32 wickets, Mohammed Siraj with 20 wickets was the next best and Prasidh Krishna, who played only one Test out of five, was third best with six wickets. As for Shami, there were talks that he will join the squad ahead of the fourth Test on the Boxing Day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) but wasn't cleared by the Indian cricket board. Most recently, Shami played two matches in the domestic 50-over cup Vijay Hazare Trophy for his state Bengal and took one wicket in each of the matches. Before that, Shami had played nine games in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) T20 cup - taking 11 wickets in total with a best of 3/21. Shami's comeback, whenever happens, will be a boost for India as he was the highest wicket-taker in the ODI World Cup 2023. He had come in place of Hardik Pandya after the all-rounder got injured and played pivotal role in India reaching the final with 24 wickets in seven games.

Champions Trophy: Mohammed Shami 'All Set to Take on the World'

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has dismissed the call to boycott the Afghanistan clash in the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025. A total of 160 British lawmakers had proposed the idea of boycotting the match, which takes place on Feb 26 in Lahore. The call came against Afghanistan&rsquo;s Taliban regime's assault on women's rights since they came into power in 2021.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">ECB denies boycott request <o:p></o:p></h2>
&ldquo;The ECB strongly condemns the treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan under the Taliban regime...The ICC Constitution mandates all member nations to commit to the growth and development of women&rsquo;s cricket. The ECB has consistently refrained from scheduling bilateral matches with Afghanistan. However, a coordinated, ICC-wide approach would be significantly more impactful than individual actions,&rdquo; ECB Chief Executive Richard Gould said.<o:p></o:p>
A wide cross-party group from the House of Commons and House of Lords, including Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and former leader of the Labour Party Jeremy Corbyn, had called on the ECB "to speak out against the horrific treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan under the Taliban."<o:p></o:p>
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-trophy-2025-british-politicians-urge-england-to-boycott-afghanistan-clash-8597391" aria-label="Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash">Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash</a>
Since the return of the Taliban to Afghanistan in 2021, women&rsquo;s rights have been a major issue on the world map. Female athletes have no scope, with participation outlawed. With the International Cricket Council (ICC) promoting female cricket in recent years, the current scenario does not sit well with the stakeholders.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Hosting Afghanistan&nbsp;a&nbsp;challenge for PCB&nbsp;</h2>
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) faces a major challenge in keeping the Champions Trophy hosting rights, and the latest development does not go well for them. Pakistan could yet find it tough to host Afghanistan in the Champions Trophy as the nation is currently in conflict with the Taliban-ruled province over border issues.<o:p></o:p>

Sports, Cricket: A total of 160 British lawmakers proposed the idea of boycotting the clash between England and Afghanistan, which takes place on February 26 in Lahore. 

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has dismissed the call to boycott the Afghanistan clash in the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025. A total of 160 British lawmakers had proposed the idea of boycotting the match, which takes place on Feb 26 in Lahore. The call came against Afghanistan’s Taliban regime's assault on women's rights since they came into power in 2021. ECB denies boycott request “The ECB strongly condemns the treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan under the Taliban regime...The ICC Constitution mandates all member nations to commit to the growth and development of women’s cricket. The ECB has consistently refrained from scheduling bilateral matches with Afghanistan. However, a coordinated, ICC-wide approach would be significantly more impactful than individual actions,” ECB Chief Executive Richard Gould said. A wide cross-party group from the House of Commons and House of Lords, including Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and former leader of the Labour Party Jeremy Corbyn, had called on the ECB "to speak out against the horrific treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan under the Taliban." ALSO READ | Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash Since the return of the Taliban to Afghanistan in 2021, women’s rights have been a major issue on the world map. Female athletes have no scope, with participation outlawed. With the International Cricket Council (ICC) promoting female cricket in recent years, the current scenario does not sit well with the stakeholders. Hosting Afghanistan a challenge for PCB The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) faces a major challenge in keeping the Champions Trophy hosting rights, and the latest development does not go well for them. Pakistan could yet find it tough to host Afghanistan in the Champions Trophy as the nation is currently in conflict with the Taliban-ruled province over border issues.

Champions Trophy 2025: ECB dismisses proposal to boycott Afghanistan clash

The Champions Trophy 2025 could have one more round of controversy after British politicians called on the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to boycott their nation&rsquo;s clash against Afghanistan. The latest development came on Monday (Jan 6) evening, as more than 160 British politicians took a stand against Afghanistan&rsquo;s Taliban regime's assault on women's rights. England will face Afghanistan on February 26 in Lahore in the Champions Trophy. <o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">British politicians urge England to boycott Afghan clash in CT 2025<o:p></o:p></h2>
A wide cross-party group from the House of Commons and House of Lords, including Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and former leader of the Labour Party Jeremy Corbyn, called on the ECB "to speak out against the horrific treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan under the Taliban."<o:p></o:p>
Since the return of the Taliban to Afghanistan in 2021, women&rsquo;s rights have been a major issue on the world map. Female athletes have no scope with participation outlawed. With the International Cricket Council (ICC) promoting female cricket in recent years, the current scenario does not sit well with stakeholders. <o:p></o:p>
However, Afghanistan are still allowed to compete by the ICC and ECB CEO Richard Gould responded by suggesting a uniform approach from all member nations is the best way forward.<o:p></o:p>
"The ECB strongly condemns the treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan under the Taliban regime," he said.<o:p></o:p>
"The ICC Constitution mandates that all member nations are committed to the growth and development of women's cricket. In line with this commitment, the ECB has maintained its position of not scheduling any bilateral cricket matches against Afghanistan.<o:p></o:p>
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-nottingham-forest-tame-wolves-to-maintain-unlikely-title-challenge-8597371" aria-label="Premier League: Nottingham Forest tame Wolves to maintain unlikely title challenge" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Premier League: Nottingham Forest tame Wolves to maintain unlikely title challenge</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Champions Trophy build-up boils up<o:p></o:p></h2>
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has faced a major challenge in keeping the Champions Trophy hosting rights, and the latest development does not augur well for them. Pakistan could find it tough to host Afghanistan in the Champions Trophy as the nation is currently in conflict with the Taliban-ruled province over border issues. If England&rsquo;s latest stance becomes more concrete, the PCB will have a decision to make in the coming days.<o:p></o:p>

Sports, World, Cricket: The CT 2025 could have one more round of controversy after British politicians called on the ECB to boycott their nation’s clash against Afghanistan.

The Champions Trophy 2025 could have one more round of controversy after British politicians called on the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to boycott their nation’s clash against Afghanistan. The latest development came on Monday (Jan 6) evening, as more than 160 British politicians took a stand against Afghanistan’s Taliban regime's assault on women's rights. England will face Afghanistan on February 26 in Lahore in the Champions Trophy. British politicians urge England to boycott Afghan clash in CT 2025 A wide cross-party group from the House of Commons and House of Lords, including Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and former leader of the Labour Party Jeremy Corbyn, called on the ECB "to speak out against the horrific treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan under the Taliban." Since the return of the Taliban to Afghanistan in 2021, women’s rights have been a major issue on the world map. Female athletes have no scope with participation outlawed. With the International Cricket Council (ICC) promoting female cricket in recent years, the current scenario does not sit well with stakeholders. However, Afghanistan are still allowed to compete by the ICC and ECB CEO Richard Gould responded by suggesting a uniform approach from all member nations is the best way forward. "The ECB strongly condemns the treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan under the Taliban regime," he said. "The ICC Constitution mandates that all member nations are committed to the growth and development of women's cricket. In line with this commitment, the ECB has maintained its position of not scheduling any bilateral cricket matches against Afghanistan. ALSO READ | Premier League: Nottingham Forest tame Wolves to maintain unlikely title challenge Champions Trophy build-up boils up The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has faced a major challenge in keeping the Champions Trophy hosting rights, and the latest development does not augur well for them. Pakistan could find it tough to host Afghanistan in the Champions Trophy as the nation is currently in conflict with the Taliban-ruled province over border issues. If England’s latest stance becomes more concrete, the PCB will have a decision to make in the coming days.

Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash

Things seem to have gotten ugly following Rohit Sharma&rsquo;s exclusion from the playing XI for the ongoing SCG Test. The latest reports have emerged suggesting that should Rohit decide against leading the team in One-Dayers, with the Champions Trophy 2025 looming, the BCCI has a backup option ready.
Rohit&rsquo;s omission from the BGT decider shocked the cricket world, with everyone wondering what led to him opting out from playing the decisive Test. At the coin toss, the stand-in Indian captain, Jasprit Bumrah, revealed Rohit showed leadership skills by resting himself, knowing his form hadn&rsquo;t helped India in the three matches he played in the series.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/steve-smith-to-captain-australia-for-sri-lanka-tests-in-pat-cummins-absence-report-8587859" rel="dofollow">Steve Smith to captain Australia for Sri Lanka Tests &ndash; Report</a>
&lsquo;Our captain [Rohit Sharma] has shown his leadership as well. He's opted to rest in this game. "So, that shows that there's a lot of unity in our team. There's no selfishness. Whatever is in the team's best interest, we're looking to do that," Bumrah said at the toss.
However, his absence from the playing XI, and more so from the team sheet of 16 players, including the reserves and backups, fuelled speculations of his potential Test retirement following the conclusion of this Test.&nbsp;
Though neither Rohit, the board, nor anyone close to the dressing room has spilt beans on this, should Rohit decide to hang his boots across formats, the Men in Blue must have a new captain ready at the helm for the eight-team tournament.
<h2>Who replaces Rohit as new ODI captain?</h2>
Rohit announced his retirement from T20Is following winning the tournament in the Americas last year. Considering India&rsquo;s home season and the action-packed schedule that awaits, including the away BGT and the Champions Trophy, Rohit decided to hold the top spot in the side in two formats.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, considering how quickly things changed overnight, with a dip in Rohit&rsquo;s form, reflexes and leadership abilities, he remains far from being his best version, something which worries the new management.
An unnamed BCCI source has revealed that all-rounder Hardik Pandya emerges as the top yet best option to lead India in the Champions Trophy should Rohit announce his international retirement.
&ldquo;Hardik has the knack for leading in high-pressure situations, and his experience as an all-rounder and leader makes him an ideal choice for an ICC tournament like the Champions Trophy," an unnamed BCCI source said, as quoted by MyKhel.
Though the source revealed that BCCI had zeroed in on two other options, Pandya&rsquo;s credential keeps him ahead in the race.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Gill needs more grooming to mature into a leader, and SKY&rsquo;s ODI performances haven&rsquo;t been convincing enough. Hardik remains the most balanced option to lead India in ODIs if Rohit is unavailable," the source added.
Meanwhile, Pakistan and the UAE will co-host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. While Pakistan will play all its matches in their country, India&rsquo;s games will take place in Dubai, including the knockouts, should they qualify.&nbsp;
The eight-team tournament will get underway on February 19 and ends on March 9.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Rohit Sharma's omission from the BGT decider shocked the cricket world, with everyone wondering what led to him opting out from playing the decisive Test.

Things seem to have gotten ugly following Rohit Sharma’s exclusion from the playing XI for the ongoing SCG Test. The latest reports have emerged suggesting that should Rohit decide against leading the team in One-Dayers, with the Champions Trophy 2025 looming, the BCCI has a backup option ready. Rohit’s omission from the BGT decider shocked the cricket world, with everyone wondering what led to him opting out from playing the decisive Test. At the coin toss, the stand-in Indian captain, Jasprit Bumrah, revealed Rohit showed leadership skills by resting himself, knowing his form hadn’t helped India in the three matches he played in the series. Also read | Steve Smith to captain Australia for Sri Lanka Tests – Report ‘Our captain [Rohit Sharma] has shown his leadership as well. He's opted to rest in this game. "So, that shows that there's a lot of unity in our team. There's no selfishness. Whatever is in the team's best interest, we're looking to do that," Bumrah said at the toss. However, his absence from the playing XI, and more so from the team sheet of 16 players, including the reserves and backups, fuelled speculations of his potential Test retirement following the conclusion of this Test. Though neither Rohit, the board, nor anyone close to the dressing room has spilt beans on this, should Rohit decide to hang his boots across formats, the Men in Blue must have a new captain ready at the helm for the eight-team tournament. Who replaces Rohit as new ODI captain? Rohit announced his retirement from T20Is following winning the tournament in the Americas last year. Considering India’s home season and the action-packed schedule that awaits, including the away BGT and the Champions Trophy, Rohit decided to hold the top spot in the side in two formats. Meanwhile, considering how quickly things changed overnight, with a dip in Rohit’s form, reflexes and leadership abilities, he remains far from being his best version, something which worries the new management. An unnamed BCCI source has revealed that all-rounder Hardik Pandya emerges as the top yet best option to lead India in the Champions Trophy should Rohit announce his international retirement. “Hardik has the knack for leading in high-pressure situations, and his experience as an all-rounder and leader makes him an ideal choice for an ICC tournament like the Champions Trophy," an unnamed BCCI source said, as quoted by MyKhel. Though the source revealed that BCCI had zeroed in on two other options, Pandya’s credential keeps him ahead in the race. “Gill needs more grooming to mature into a leader, and SKY’s ODI performances haven’t been convincing enough. Hardik remains the most balanced option to lead India in ODIs if Rohit is unavailable," the source added. Meanwhile, Pakistan and the UAE will co-host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. While Pakistan will play all its matches in their country, India’s games will take place in Dubai, including the knockouts, should they qualify. The eight-team tournament will get underway on February 19 and ends on March 9. (With inputs from agencies)

India likely to have a new captain for Champions Trophy 2025 – Report

India&rsquo;s star trio of Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Rohit Sharma are likely to be rested for the upcoming white-ball series against England. According to media reports, Kohli, Rohit and Bumrah will be part of the workload management system which will see them rested for the England series which starts in January. While Rohit missed the Perth Test against Australia in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the rest have played in all matches.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Star trio to be rested?</h2>
According to India Today&rsquo;s Sports Tak, Bumrah and Virat have been overworked and will be rested for the series to keep them fresh for the Champions Trophy 2025. The Indian team is one of the favourites to win the Champions Trophy which will be played in the hybrid model in Pakistan and the UAE in February and March. To avoid any injury issues with any of those players, the team management has suggested to the chief selectors to avoid picking them for the ODI series which starts on January 21 in Kolkata.
Rohit and Virat have already announced their T20I retirements, meaning they won&rsquo;t be available for the series while Bumrah is still an integral part of the team. However, he has not played in a T20I match since the World Cup final in June 2024.
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-olympians-claim-medal-condition-deteriorating-after-months-after-quadrennial-event-8580340" aria-label="Paris Olympians claim medal condition deteriorating months after quadrennial event">Paris Olympians claim medal condition deteriorating months after quadrennial event</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">India eye Champions Trophy</h2>
Having previously won the Champions Trophy in 2002 and 2013; the Indian team will search for their third title in 2025 under Rohit Sharma&rsquo;s captaincy. Rohit, Virat and Bumrah are expected to be the first names on the team sheet considering their huge experience. The series is likely to be the last ODI quest for Rohit Sharma, with his retirement rumours getting fueled up in recent weeks.
The Indian captain has endured a horror form Down Under against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and has been under huge criticism. According to a few media reports, he is likely to announce his Test retirement after the Australia series followed by the ODI retirement after the Champions Trophy.

Sports, Cricket:  According to media reports, Kohli, Rohit and Bumrah will be rested for the England series which starts in January as part of the workload management. 

India’s star trio of Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Rohit Sharma are likely to be rested for the upcoming white-ball series against England. According to media reports, Kohli, Rohit and Bumrah will be part of the workload management system which will see them rested for the England series which starts in January. While Rohit missed the Perth Test against Australia in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the rest have played in all matches. Star trio to be rested? According to India Today’s Sports Tak, Bumrah and Virat have been overworked and will be rested for the series to keep them fresh for the Champions Trophy 2025. The Indian team is one of the favourites to win the Champions Trophy which will be played in the hybrid model in Pakistan and the UAE in February and March. To avoid any injury issues with any of those players, the team management has suggested to the chief selectors to avoid picking them for the ODI series which starts on January 21 in Kolkata. Rohit and Virat have already announced their T20I retirements, meaning they won’t be available for the series while Bumrah is still an integral part of the team. However, he has not played in a T20I match since the World Cup final in June 2024. ALSO READ | Paris Olympians claim medal condition deteriorating months after quadrennial event India eye Champions Trophy Having previously won the Champions Trophy in 2002 and 2013; the Indian team will search for their third title in 2025 under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy. Rohit, Virat and Bumrah are expected to be the first names on the team sheet considering their huge experience. The series is likely to be the last ODI quest for Rohit Sharma, with his retirement rumours getting fueled up in recent weeks. The Indian captain has endured a horror form Down Under against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and has been under huge criticism. According to a few media reports, he is likely to announce his Test retirement after the Australia series followed by the ODI retirement after the Champions Trophy.

IND vs ENG: Bumrah, Kohli to be rested for ODI series; to return for Champions Trophy 2025 - Report

Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has predicted a debacle for Babar Azam-led Men in Green&nbsp;in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. The upcoming ICC event will be held in Pakistan early next year, with the hosts placed in Group A along with arch-rivals India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, whereas the other group comprises South Africa, Australia, England, and Afghanistan. Basit feels it will be a 'huge achievement' for the hosts and defending champions to reach the semifinals.&nbsp;He has also predicted sacking of&nbsp;white-ball coach Gary Kirsten&nbsp;soon after the mega event.

Basit said on his YouTube channel, "Congratulations to Gary Kirsten. He will be at the helm of the team till the Champions Trophy. However, he will be fired after the Champions Trophy. I am saying this now that it will be tata, bye bye for him. It will be a big achievement for Pakistan to make it to the top four. They have also stepped into the politics of Pakistani cricket. They won't be successful."

Kirsten kicked off his two-year stint as Pakistan's white-ball coach in May 2024 with Pakistan's four-match T20I series loss to England, in England and Wales. It was a dress rehearsal for the 20-nation T20 World Cup, held in West Indies and the USA. In the showpiece event, Babar &amp; Co. lost to USA and India before wins over Canada and Ireland. However, it was too late for them as they bowed out in the group stage, not even making it to the Super 8s.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-ban-virat-rohit-not-playing-duleep-trophy-wasnt-good-manjrekar-slams-duo-after-no-show-in-chennai-761871">Ind vs Ban: Virat, Rohit not playing Duleep Trophy wasn't good - Manjrekar slams duo after no show in Chennai</a>

Pakistan, i.e. the fourth-ranked ICC ODI side, have a herculean task in the upcoming Champions Trophy at home. They have fared poorly in recent ICC events, including the 2023 ODI World Cup, and have also lost many bilateral series across formats in the past one year.&nbsp;

Currently, Pakistan are gearing up for the home Test series versus England, starting Oct 7. They suffered a whitewash in a two-match Test series at home versus Bangladesh last month.

Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has predicted a debacle for Babar Azam-led Men in Green in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. The upcoming ICC event will be held in Pakistan early next year, with the hosts placed in Group A along with arch-rivals India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, whereas the other group comprises South Africa, Australia, England, and Afghanistan.

Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has predicted a debacle for Babar Azam-led Men in Green in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. The upcoming ICC event will be held in Pakistan early next year, with the hosts placed in Group A along with arch-rivals India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, whereas the other group comprises South Africa, Australia, England, and Afghanistan. Basit feels it will be a 'huge achievement' for the hosts and defending champions to reach the semifinals. He has also predicted sacking of white-ball coach Gary Kirsten soon after the mega event. Basit said on his YouTube channel, "Congratulations to Gary Kirsten. He will be at the helm of the team till the Champions Trophy. However, he will be fired after the Champions Trophy. I am saying this now that it will be tata, bye bye for him. It will be a big achievement for Pakistan to make it to the top four. They have also stepped into the politics of Pakistani cricket. They won't be successful." Kirsten kicked off his two-year stint as Pakistan's white-ball coach in May 2024 with Pakistan's four-match T20I series loss to England, in England and Wales. It was a dress rehearsal for the 20-nation T20 World Cup, held in West Indies and the USA. In the showpiece event, Babar & Co. lost to USA and India before wins over Canada and Ireland. However, it was too late for them as they bowed out in the group stage, not even making it to the Super 8s. Also read: Ind vs Ban: Virat, Rohit not playing Duleep Trophy wasn't good - Manjrekar slams duo after no show in Chennai Pakistan, i.e. the fourth-ranked ICC ODI side, have a herculean task in the upcoming Champions Trophy at home. They have fared poorly in recent ICC events, including the 2023 ODI World Cup, and have also lost many bilateral series across formats in the past one year. Currently, Pakistan are gearing up for the home Test series versus England, starting Oct 7. They suffered a whitewash in a two-match Test series at home versus Bangladesh last month.

Former player predicts Pakistan's failure in Champions Trophy, says PCB will sack Kirsten after mega event

With each passing day, cricket fans are nearing the start of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled in Pakistan during the February-March window next year. Though plenty has happened behind the scenes in the past month, including Jay Shah's appointment as the new ICC chair, which could eventually decide CT venue fate, the PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi is confident that Pakistan will retain the hosting rights, with the PCB constantly in touch with the BCCI secretary.

During the latest media interaction, Naqvi sounded optimistic about BCCI and the Indian Government allowing the Indian Team to travel to Pakistan for the first time since 2008 for the multi-team tournament. &nbsp;

“Champions Trophy will be held in Pakistan, we are in touch with the BCCI Secretary,” PCB chairman Naqvi said during a media interaction, as quoted by The Indian Express. “[We are] also in contact with the boards of the teams participating in the Champions Trophy.”

Even last year, when Pakistan was supposed to host the 2023 Asia Cup, the BCCI decided against sending the team, with the Asian Cricket Council, headed by Jay Shah, deciding to add Sri Lanka as the co-host, with all India games rescheduled in the Island Nation, including the final.

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Besides, the PCB began preparations for the eight-team tournament, with construction resuming at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The remaining two venues finalised for the Champions Trophy are the National Stadium in Karachi and Pindi Stadium in Rawalpindi.

“The basement of Gaddafi Stadium will be constructed by September 30. Each floor will be completed in a three-week period. The front building would consist of a steel structure. The main building of Gaddafi Stadium will be completed by December 31.

“Pindi Stadium will have to be completely demolished and rebuilt; the seats will be installed in the stadium before the Champions Trophy. The renovation at Karachi’s [National Stadium] will also be completed before the Champions Trophy,” Naqvi concluded.

<h2>BCCI has yet to take final call</h2>

Despite being approached several times, the BCCI officials have kept mum over their stance of not sending the Indian Team across the border.

Neither the BCCI President Roger Binny nor Shah has given any verdict, with everything surrounding this ICC event remaining in the air.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

With each passing day, cricket fans are nearing the start of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled in Pakistan during the February-March window next year. Though plenty has happened behind the scenes in the past month, including Jay Shah's appointment as the new ICC chair, which could eventually decide CT venue fate, the PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi is confident that Pakistan will retain the hosting rights, with the PCB constantly in touch with the BCCI secretary.

With each passing day, cricket fans are nearing the start of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled in Pakistan during the February-March window next year. Though plenty has happened behind the scenes in the past month, including Jay Shah's appointment as the new ICC chair, which could eventually decide CT venue fate, the PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi is confident that Pakistan will retain the hosting rights, with the PCB constantly in touch with the BCCI secretary. During the latest media interaction, Naqvi sounded optimistic about BCCI and the Indian Government allowing the Indian Team to travel to Pakistan for the first time since 2008 for the multi-team tournament. “Champions Trophy will be held in Pakistan, we are in touch with the BCCI Secretary,” PCB chairman Naqvi said during a media interaction, as quoted by The Indian Express. “[We are] also in contact with the boards of the teams participating in the Champions Trophy.” Even last year, when Pakistan was supposed to host the 2023 Asia Cup, the BCCI decided against sending the team, with the Asian Cricket Council, headed by Jay Shah, deciding to add Sri Lanka as the co-host, with all India games rescheduled in the Island Nation, including the final. ALSO READ: ‘Proud’ Moeen Ali announces international retirement, says ‘it’s time for next generation’ Besides, the PCB began preparations for the eight-team tournament, with construction resuming at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The remaining two venues finalised for the Champions Trophy are the National Stadium in Karachi and Pindi Stadium in Rawalpindi. “The basement of Gaddafi Stadium will be constructed by September 30. Each floor will be completed in a three-week period. The front building would consist of a steel structure. The main building of Gaddafi Stadium will be completed by December 31. “Pindi Stadium will have to be completely demolished and rebuilt; the seats will be installed in the stadium before the Champions Trophy. The renovation at Karachi’s [National Stadium] will also be completed before the Champions Trophy,” Naqvi concluded. BCCI has yet to take final call Despite being approached several times, the BCCI officials have kept mum over their stance of not sending the Indian Team across the border. Neither the BCCI President Roger Binny nor Shah has given any verdict, with everything surrounding this ICC event remaining in the air. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Pakistan will host Champions Trophy, we are in touch with BCCI secretary’, says PCB chair Mohsin Naqvi

Former Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has confirmed his choice for India's opening slot for the 2025 Champions Trophy, to be held in Pakistan early next year. After the ODI series loss to Sri Lanka, early this month, Rohit Sharma-led India have only three more ODIs -- versus England at home -- ahead of the next ICC event. Thus, Karthik believes India will stick to their tried-and-tested opening pair of Rohit and Shubman Gill, with Yashasvi Jaiswal as an backup option.

Karthik explained his choice&nbsp;on&nbsp;Cricbuzz and said, "Why? Rohit and Shubman are a very good combination. Yes, Jaiswal has a great opportunity to be the backup opener and will get his opportunity soon if Shubman doesn't go as well as expected. And India has a very solid middle order as well."

"In the lead-up to the Champions Trophy, they are just going to be playing three more games. And I am pretty confident it's going to be Rohit and Shubman opening for the Champions Trophy," he added.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/team-is-going-there-to-play-not-rest-gavaskar-slams-bccis-preparation-for-indias-tour-of-australia-751958">Team is going there to play, not rest: Gavaskar SLAMS BCCI's preparation for India's tour of Australia</a>

Gill and Rohit have forged a successful opening pair in&nbsp;ODIs (with Jaiswal partnering Hitman at the top in whites). The duo opened the innings for India in the 2023 home ODI World Cup, where the Men in Blue ended as the runners-up. In the ODI WC, Rohit ended with 597 runs and Gill managed 354 runs despite missing the initial games due to dengue. The pair managed to put up four 50-plus stands and one century partnership.

Talking about Jaiswal, the southpaw&nbsp;has&nbsp;scored 1,028&nbsp;runs in 9 Tests, including three tons, and 723 runs at a strike-rate of 164.31&nbsp;in 23 T20Is. However, the Rajasthan Royals (RR) batter is yet to make his ODI debut. Given he was part of Rohit-led India's victorious 2024 T20 WC squad, he is likely to continue as a backup opener at the forthcoming Champions Trophy.

India are placed in Group A along with hosts Pakistan, Bangladesh and New Zealand whereas Group B comprises South Africa, Afghanistan, Australia and England.

Former Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has confirmed his choice for India's opening slot for the 2025 Champions Trophy, to be held in Pakistan early next year.

Former Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has confirmed his choice for India's opening slot for the 2025 Champions Trophy, to be held in Pakistan early next year. After the ODI series loss to Sri Lanka, early this month, Rohit Sharma-led India have only three more ODIs -- versus England at home -- ahead of the next ICC event. Thus, Karthik believes India will stick to their tried-and-tested opening pair of Rohit and Shubman Gill, with Yashasvi Jaiswal as an backup option. Karthik explained his choice on Cricbuzz and said, "Why? Rohit and Shubman are a very good combination. Yes, Jaiswal has a great opportunity to be the backup opener and will get his opportunity soon if Shubman doesn't go as well as expected. And India has a very solid middle order as well." "In the lead-up to the Champions Trophy, they are just going to be playing three more games. And I am pretty confident it's going to be Rohit and Shubman opening for the Champions Trophy," he added. Also read: Team is going there to play, not rest: Gavaskar SLAMS BCCI's preparation for India's tour of Australia Gill and Rohit have forged a successful opening pair in ODIs (with Jaiswal partnering Hitman at the top in whites). The duo opened the innings for India in the 2023 home ODI World Cup, where the Men in Blue ended as the runners-up. In the ODI WC, Rohit ended with 597 runs and Gill managed 354 runs despite missing the initial games due to dengue. The pair managed to put up four 50-plus stands and one century partnership. Talking about Jaiswal, the southpaw has scored 1,028 runs in 9 Tests, including three tons, and 723 runs at a strike-rate of 164.31 in 23 T20Is. However, the Rajasthan Royals (RR) batter is yet to make his ODI debut. Given he was part of Rohit-led India's victorious 2024 T20 WC squad, he is likely to continue as a backup opener at the forthcoming Champions Trophy. India are placed in Group A along with hosts Pakistan, Bangladesh and New Zealand whereas Group B comprises South Africa, Afghanistan, Australia and England.

Champions Trophy 2025: Dinesh Karthik picks his Indian openers, no place for RR star

The Indian Cricket Team is on top of its prowess, having recently won the T20 World Cup in the Americas, and even though they haven’t won an ICC title in 50-over cricket in over a decade, their domination in the white-ball cricket in the past many years speaks for itself. With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan next in line, the chances of the Indian government denying permission to send the team across the border are high and could have repercussions. So, what will happen if Team India pulls out of the eight-team tournament in Pakistan next year?

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is preparing for next year’s Champions Trophy in full flow, with several reports suggesting that they have even submitted the draft schedule with potential groups to the ICC and all participating members. With the apex body (ICC) also working in tandem with the PCB, it appears like the competition might go ahead at the original venue.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shaheen-afridi-misbehaved-with-batting-coach-ahead-of-t20-wc-reports-suggest-this-was-in-heat-of-the-moment-740463">Shaheen Afridi misbehaved with batting coach ahead of T20 WC, reports suggest this was in 'heat of the moment'</a>

However, considering the tense political relations between India and Pakistan, neither the ruling government nor the BCCI have communicated any word on sending the team to Pakistan for the tournament.&nbsp;

Although the latest reports reveal that BCCI officials will speak to ICC on the change in venue to Dubai or Sri Lanka during the next annual conference, if the opposite happens and ICC decides against doing it, Team India could face some repercussions.&nbsp;

“In the case of the Champions Trophy, we will do whatever the Government of India will tell us to do. We send our team only when the Government of India permits us to do so. So, we will go according to the decision of the Indian government,” BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla said, as quoted by the Hindustan Times.

<h2>What will happen&nbsp;if Team India pulls out of CT 2025?</h2>

If the BCCI remains firm on its stance of not allowing Team India to travel to Pakistan (and the venues remain the same), they will be disqualified from participating, making Sri Lanka eligible to replace them.&nbsp;

Per previous reports, India was placed in Group A alongside the hosts Pakistan, Bangladesh and New Zealand. The remaining four teams – Afghanistan, England, Australia and South Africa are drawn in Group B.&nbsp;

Besides, per the draft schedule submitted to the ICC and the BCCI, Team India will play their matches at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, including the semis and final, should they qualify.

The marquee India vs Pakistan game is scheduled for March 1 in Lahore.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian Cricket Team is on top of its prowess, having recently won the T20 World Cup in the Americas, and even though they haven’t won an ICC title in 50-over cricket in over a decade, their domination in the white-ball cricket in the past many years speaks for itself.

The Indian Cricket Team is on top of its prowess, having recently won the T20 World Cup in the Americas, and even though they haven’t won an ICC title in 50-over cricket in over a decade, their domination in the white-ball cricket in the past many years speaks for itself. With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan next in line, the chances of the Indian government denying permission to send the team across the border are high and could have repercussions. So, what will happen if Team India pulls out of the eight-team tournament in Pakistan next year? The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is preparing for next year’s Champions Trophy in full flow, with several reports suggesting that they have even submitted the draft schedule with potential groups to the ICC and all participating members. With the apex body (ICC) also working in tandem with the PCB, it appears like the competition might go ahead at the original venue. ALSO READ: Shaheen Afridi misbehaved with batting coach ahead of T20 WC, reports suggest this was in 'heat of the moment' However, considering the tense political relations between India and Pakistan, neither the ruling government nor the BCCI have communicated any word on sending the team to Pakistan for the tournament. Although the latest reports reveal that BCCI officials will speak to ICC on the change in venue to Dubai or Sri Lanka during the next annual conference, if the opposite happens and ICC decides against doing it, Team India could face some repercussions. “In the case of the Champions Trophy, we will do whatever the Government of India will tell us to do. We send our team only when the Government of India permits us to do so. So, we will go according to the decision of the Indian government,” BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla said, as quoted by the Hindustan Times. What will happen if Team India pulls out of CT 2025? If the BCCI remains firm on its stance of not allowing Team India to travel to Pakistan (and the venues remain the same), they will be disqualified from participating, making Sri Lanka eligible to replace them. Per previous reports, India was placed in Group A alongside the hosts Pakistan, Bangladesh and New Zealand. The remaining four teams – Afghanistan, England, Australia and South Africa are drawn in Group B. Besides, per the draft schedule submitted to the ICC and the BCCI, Team India will play their matches at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, including the semis and final, should they qualify. The marquee India vs Pakistan game is scheduled for March 1 in Lahore. (With inputs from agencies)

What happens if Team India pulls out of ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan?

BCCI secretary Jay Shah released a video, thanking the Indian Team for their best efforts and for winning the 2024 T20 World Cup title in the Americas. Shah also put aside all the rumours of a change in captaincy following the appointment of a new head coach by confirming that longer-format skipper Rohit Sharma will continue to lead India in ODIs and Tests.&nbsp;

Shah added that Team India’s next target is winning the World Test Championship Final and the Champions Trophy, both scheduled for next year, under Rohit's leadership.

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In a one-minute-plus-long video, Shah congratulated the Men in Blue for this historic win in Barbados, where they beat South Africa by seven runs in the final. Shah dedicated Team India’s second world title to former coach Rahul Dravid and three players who announced their T20I retirements – Rohit, Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja.

Shah said it was Team India’s third final in the last year. India lost the WTC Final (in June) and the 50-over World Cup Final a few months later in November to Australia on both occasions. Shah added after those two losses, he committed that the Rohit-led Indian Team would turn the tables in June this year in the T20 WC by winning it, which eventually happened.

He also congratulated the bowling attack that kept its cool and won the match from a losing position in the finale.

<h2>Rohit to lead in WTC and CT</h2>

Confirming Rohit Sharma’s participation as the Team India captain for the coming two ICC events scheduled in 2025 – the WTC Final and the Champions Trophy, Shah said he believes that under Rohit’s leadership, Team India will again stand tall in those tournaments and lift the respective trophies.

WATCH VIDEO -

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | BCCI Secretary Jay Shah congratulates the Indian cricket team on winning the ICC T20 World Cup 
 
He says, "...I am confident that under the captaincy of Rohit Sharma, we will win the WTC Final and the Champions Trophy..." 
 
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Meanwhile, India sits in the top position in the current WTC standings, with six wins from nine matches and a PCT of 68.52.&nbsp;

Considering India’s home season, which includes Test series against Bangladesh and New Zealand and an overseas tour Down Under, they have a stronger chance of staying at the top and qualifying for the WTC Final for the record third-straight time.

Besides, regarding the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan next year, neither the Indian Govt. nor the BCCI have confirmed Team India’s participation, owing to tense relations between the two countries.&nbsp;

However, per the latest reports, should India travel to Pakistan, they will play all of their matches at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, including the semis and the finale, should they reach that far. Reports also suggest that India is placed in Group A alongside the hosts Pakistan, Bangladesh and New Zealand.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

BCCI secretary Jay Shah released a video, thanking the Indian Team for their best efforts and for winning the 2024 T20 World Cup title in the Americas. Shah also put aside all the rumours of a change in captaincy following the appointment of a new head coach by confirming that longer-format skipper Rohit Sharma will continue to lead India in ODIs and Tests.

BCCI secretary Jay Shah released a video, thanking the Indian Team for their best efforts and for winning the 2024 T20 World Cup title in the Americas. Shah also put aside all the rumours of a change in captaincy following the appointment of a new head coach by confirming that longer-format skipper Rohit Sharma will continue to lead India in ODIs and Tests. Shah added that Team India’s next target is winning the World Test Championship Final and the Champions Trophy, both scheduled for next year, under Rohit's leadership. ALSO READ: MS Dhoni’s Birthday: Salman Khan, Gautam Gambhir pour wishes as Thala turns 43 – WATCH In a one-minute-plus-long video, Shah congratulated the Men in Blue for this historic win in Barbados, where they beat South Africa by seven runs in the final. Shah dedicated Team India’s second world title to former coach Rahul Dravid and three players who announced their T20I retirements – Rohit, Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja. Shah said it was Team India’s third final in the last year. India lost the WTC Final (in June) and the 50-over World Cup Final a few months later in November to Australia on both occasions. Shah added after those two losses, he committed that the Rohit-led Indian Team would turn the tables in June this year in the T20 WC by winning it, which eventually happened. He also congratulated the bowling attack that kept its cool and won the match from a losing position in the finale. Rohit to lead in WTC and CT Confirming Rohit Sharma’s participation as the Team India captain for the coming two ICC events scheduled in 2025 – the WTC Final and the Champions Trophy, Shah said he believes that under Rohit’s leadership, Team India will again stand tall in those tournaments and lift the respective trophies. WATCH VIDEO - #WATCH | BCCI Secretary Jay Shah congratulates the Indian cricket team on winning the ICC T20 World Cup He says, "...I am confident that under the captaincy of Rohit Sharma, we will win the WTC Final and the Champions Trophy..." (Source: BCCI) pic.twitter.com/NEAvQwxz8Y — ANI (@ANI) July 7, 2024 × Meanwhile, India sits in the top position in the current WTC standings, with six wins from nine matches and a PCT of 68.52. Considering India’s home season, which includes Test series against Bangladesh and New Zealand and an overseas tour Down Under, they have a stronger chance of staying at the top and qualifying for the WTC Final for the record third-straight time. Besides, regarding the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan next year, neither the Indian Govt. nor the BCCI have confirmed Team India’s participation, owing to tense relations between the two countries. However, per the latest reports, should India travel to Pakistan, they will play all of their matches at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, including the semis and the finale, should they reach that far. Reports also suggest that India is placed in Group A alongside the hosts Pakistan, Bangladesh and New Zealand. (With inputs from agencies)

Jay Shah confirms Rohit Sharma’s future as ODI, Test captain as 2025 WTC, Champions Trophy loom

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has proposed three venues – Lahore, Karachi and Rawalpindi, in the initial draft shared with the ICC for hosting the 2025 Champions Trophy.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has proposed three venues – Lahore, Karachi and Rawalpindi, in the initial draft shared with the ICC for hosting the 2025 Champions Trophy. The tournament, scheduled for the mid-February-March window next year, will see the return of an ICC tournament to Pakistan after a gap of nearly 30 years. The Men in Green are defending champions, having last won against arch-rivals India in 2017. Although the ICC had then decided to scrap this tournament, they brought it back in 2022, including it in the new rights cycle (2023-27), with Pakistan getting the hosting rights. The 2025 Champions Trophy will be an eight-team tournament played across two weeks, the exact dates of which are not revealed yet. The hosts - the PCB, had finalised the venues and the schedule following the ICC team’s visit. ALSO READ: PCB boss defends players’ military training after injuries denied Pakistan series win over NZ "We've sent the schedule for the matches in Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy," PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi said during a presser in Lahore. "The ICC's security team came, and we had a very good meeting. They looked at arrangements here, and we'll also share stadium upgrade plans with them. We're continuously in touch with the ICC. We are trying to ensure we host a very good tournament in Pakistan,” Naqvi continued. Although India has remained firm on not travelling to Pakistan for the marquee event, the latest draft submitted to the ICC has India’s games scheduled in Pakistan. However, as per the process, after the draft is submitted, it goes through various changes, after which it is shared with the broadcaster and the remaining participating boards before the final schedule is announced. India’s stance a worry for Pakistan Owing to frosty relationships between both governments across borders, India has not toured Pakistan since last visiting them during the 2008 Asia Cup. However, both teams only play each other during Asia Cup and ICC-related tournaments, with the Indian government barring bilateral ties between both countries. Last year, when Pakistan was supposed to host the Asia Cup, India’s call to not visit the country forced them to go ahead with the hybrid model, with Sri Lanka joining in as the co-host. However, given the tight scheduling, involving multiple franchise-based T20 leagues worldwide, the ICC will have to find the right window to host the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan.

Lahore, Rawalpindi among three venues PCB proposes for 2025 Champions Trophy at home

For the second straight time, Pakistan is on the brink of losing the hosting rights of a multi-team tournament, this time of the 2025 Champions Trophy, due to India and BCCI's stance of not sending their team to the country.&nbsp;

Due to disturbed political relations between both countries, and security being a major concern, India had opted out of playing the 2022 Asia Cup in Pakistan - the original host. The tournament later was played in the hybrid model, with Sri Lanka and Pakistan co-hosting it.

The latest reports have suggested that Pakistan might suffer the same fate again, depending on the BCCI's stance.&nbsp;

However, if the Indian government and the cricket board decide against sending the team to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy, the tournament would be played entirely in the UAE or the hybrid model, with Pakistan hosting non-India matches.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ban-vs-nz-1st-test-saqlains-knowledge-of-asian-conditions-will-come-in-handy-for-us-luke-ronchi-663374">BAN vs NZ, 1st Test - Saqlain's knowledge of Asian conditions will come in handy for us: Luke Ronchi</a>

As per a report of news agency PTI, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Zaka Ashraf and COO Salman Naseer met the ICC executive board in Ahmedabad to discuss uncertainty surrounding the venue of the 2025 Champions Trophy.&nbsp;

“Pakistani officials discussed the probability of the Indian board (BCCI) again refusing to send its team to Pakistan and made it clear that in any given situation, the ICC must avoid taking unilateral decisions on the tournament,” a source told PTI.

The PCB's top bosses argue that several top teams have toured Pakistan in the past two years, including England, New Zealand and Australia, without any team facing or complaining about security concerns.&nbsp;

They added that if India insists on complaining on security grounds, the ICC must appoint an independent security agency, which could liaise with the Pakistan government and their security officials to assess the situation of the participating teams, including India.

“The PCB officials said many top teams had toured Pakistan in the last two years without any security concerns. They also made it clear that in case of India not sending its team and its matches being moved to another country, then the ICC must compensate Pakistan for this,” the source added.

<h2>The return of the Champions Trophy</h2>

The ICC Champions Trophy - an eight-team event in 2025, will return for the first time since 2017 when Pakistan beat India to win their maiden title.

While India and Australia have won it twice, with the Men in Blue last winning in 2013, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, New Zealand, West Indies and South Africa have won it once.

For the second straight time, Pakistan is on the brink of losing the hosting rights of a multi-team tournament, this time of the 2025 Champions Trophy, due to India and BCCI's stance of not sending their team to the country.

For the second straight time, Pakistan is on the brink of losing the hosting rights of a multi-team tournament, this time of the 2025 Champions Trophy, due to India and BCCI's stance of not sending their team to the country. Due to disturbed political relations between both countries, and security being a major concern, India had opted out of playing the 2022 Asia Cup in Pakistan - the original host. The tournament later was played in the hybrid model, with Sri Lanka and Pakistan co-hosting it. The latest reports have suggested that Pakistan might suffer the same fate again, depending on the BCCI's stance. However, if the Indian government and the cricket board decide against sending the team to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy, the tournament would be played entirely in the UAE or the hybrid model, with Pakistan hosting non-India matches. ALSO READ: BAN vs NZ, 1st Test - Saqlain's knowledge of Asian conditions will come in handy for us: Luke Ronchi As per a report of news agency PTI, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Zaka Ashraf and COO Salman Naseer met the ICC executive board in Ahmedabad to discuss uncertainty surrounding the venue of the 2025 Champions Trophy. “Pakistani officials discussed the probability of the Indian board (BCCI) again refusing to send its team to Pakistan and made it clear that in any given situation, the ICC must avoid taking unilateral decisions on the tournament,” a source told PTI. The PCB's top bosses argue that several top teams have toured Pakistan in the past two years, including England, New Zealand and Australia, without any team facing or complaining about security concerns. They added that if India insists on complaining on security grounds, the ICC must appoint an independent security agency, which could liaise with the Pakistan government and their security officials to assess the situation of the participating teams, including India. “The PCB officials said many top teams had toured Pakistan in the last two years without any security concerns. They also made it clear that in case of India not sending its team and its matches being moved to another country, then the ICC must compensate Pakistan for this,” the source added. The return of the Champions Trophy The ICC Champions Trophy - an eight-team event in 2025, will return for the first time since 2017 when Pakistan beat India to win their maiden title. While India and Australia have won it twice, with the Men in Blue last winning in 2013, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, New Zealand, West Indies and South Africa have won it once.

2025 Champions Trophy venue likely to change as BCCI remains firm on not travelling to Pakistan - Reports

Pakistan's cricket board chief Ramiz Raja has given an update on scheduling India vs Pakistan matches outside of ICC events. The South Asian countries neighbouring countries square off only in the multi-nation ICC tournaments as the bilateral series between the two has been suspended due to political reasons.&nbsp;

India and Pakistan last met in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021 in UAE and Oman, when India lost the match by 10 wickets. India last hosted Pakistan in a bilateral series in 2013.&nbsp;

During a media interaction on Wednesday (November 17), Raja said that there's no clarity over holding a bilateral series, however, the two countries could possibly be involved in a tri-series.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chief-executive-of-icc-reacts-to-the-prospects-of-india-vs-pakistan-bilateral-series-in-future-429041">Chief executive of ICC reacts to the prospects of India vs Pakistan bilateral series in future</a>

"Bilateral series between Pakistan and India seems unlikely at this moment but we can hope to see both teams in action in a tri-nation series perhaps," said Raja.&nbsp;

Recent rumours suggested that India might pull out from the 2025 Champions Trophy, which is will be hosted by Pakistan and will be the first International Cricket Council (ICC) event hosted by Pakistan since it shared the 1996 World Cup with India and Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

"It is not an easy task to pull out of an international tournament. Once the rights are awarded, these feuds between different cricketing boards are also considered while making the decision. In my opinion, India will not pull out," he added.&nbsp;

"I have good working relations with Sourav Ganguly and we have good communication; discussing cricket on a global stage and it can be improved. When two former cricketers are managing things then they focus on cricketing matters and it becomes an easier thing from an administrative standpoint," he further added.&nbsp;

Pakistan's cricket board chief Ramiz Raja has given an update on scheduling India vs Pakistan matches outside of ICC events. The South Asian countries neighbouring countries square off only in the multi-nation ICC tournaments as the bilateral series between the two has been suspended due to political reasons.

Pakistan's cricket board chief Ramiz Raja has given an update on scheduling India vs Pakistan matches outside of ICC events. The South Asian countries neighbouring countries square off only in the multi-nation ICC tournaments as the bilateral series between the two has been suspended due to political reasons. India and Pakistan last met in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021 in UAE and Oman, when India lost the match by 10 wickets. India last hosted Pakistan in a bilateral series in 2013. During a media interaction on Wednesday (November 17), Raja said that there's no clarity over holding a bilateral series, however, the two countries could possibly be involved in a tri-series. ALSO READ | Chief executive of ICC reacts to the prospects of India vs Pakistan bilateral series in future "Bilateral series between Pakistan and India seems unlikely at this moment but we can hope to see both teams in action in a tri-nation series perhaps," said Raja. Recent rumours suggested that India might pull out from the 2025 Champions Trophy, which is will be hosted by Pakistan and will be the first International Cricket Council (ICC) event hosted by Pakistan since it shared the 1996 World Cup with India and Sri Lanka. "It is not an easy task to pull out of an international tournament. Once the rights are awarded, these feuds between different cricketing boards are also considered while making the decision. In my opinion, India will not pull out," he added. "I have good working relations with Sourav Ganguly and we have good communication; discussing cricket on a global stage and it can be improved. When two former cricketers are managing things then they focus on cricketing matters and it becomes an easier thing from an administrative standpoint," he further added.

PCB chief Ramiz Raja on the possibility of scheduling India vs Pakistan series

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