The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has found itself at the center of a fresh controversy as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) strongly objected to the inclusion of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) in the trophy’s planned tour. This development has added to the growing challenges faced by the tournament, which is already entangled in logistical and diplomatic disputes.
The issue came to light after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced that the Champions Trophy silverware would begin its tour of Pakistan on November 16, with stops at several prominent locations, including Skardu, Hunza, and Muzaffarabad in PoK. The PCB promoted these scenic regions on its social media platforms, with plans for the tour to culminate at K2, the world’s second-highest peak.
BCCI’s Strong Objection
The BCCI was quick to condemn the inclusion of PoK in the tour itinerary, calling it “unacceptable.” Jay Shah, BCCI secretary and incoming ICC Chair, voiced strong disapproval, emphasizing the region’s politically sensitive status. A formal protest has since been lodged with the ICC.
In light of the objections, the PCB is now reconsidering the trophy’s route. PCB sources revealed that the original plan was devised in consultation with the ICC and its commercial partners. However, the inclusion of PoK has sparked a backlash, forcing the PCB to collaborate with the ICC to find a resolution.
Potential Changes to the Trophy Tour
One of the proposed solutions is to limit the tour to Pakistan’s major hosting cities, such as Rawalpindi, Karachi, and Lahore, which were previously excluded due to seasonal weather concerns. This change would sideline the contentious regions and potentially alleviate the tension surrounding the itinerary.
Broader Issues Surrounding the Champions Trophy
This latest dispute further compounds the challenges facing the Champions Trophy. The BCCI has already announced its refusal to send the Indian team to Pakistan for the tournament, citing security risks and strained political relations. The ongoing disagreement over the hybrid model for hosting matches—some games outside Pakistan—has also fueled tensions between the BCCI and PCB.
The ICC now faces the difficult task of mediating these disputes while addressing concerns over the tournament’s format and schedule. With no resolution in sight, the future of the Champions Trophy hangs in the balance, leaving stakeholders uncertain about whether the prestigious event will proceed as planned.
