The International Cricket Council (ICC) has adjusted the Champions Trophy Trophy Tour in Pakistan, removing cities in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) following objections raised by India. The revised itinerary, unveiled on Saturday, includes major Pakistani cities but excludes the contentious regions.
Revised Itinerary Unveiled
The Trophy Tour will now visit Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Karachi, Taxila, Abbottabad, Murree, and Nathia Gali, showcasing some of Pakistan’s iconic tourist destinations. The tour begins in the capital city, Islamabad, and concludes in Karachi on November 22.
Earlier, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had planned stops in PoK cities such as Skardu, Hunza, and Muzaffarabad. However, these locations were removed after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah raised concerns with the ICC over the inclusion of the disputed region.
ICC Responds to Objections
The ICC acted promptly on India’s objections, eliminating PoK cities from the schedule. A PCB source confirmed that the original tour plan had been finalized in consultation with the ICC, emphasizing that the PCB had been cooperative with the adjustments.
“If there were issues, the ICC should have informed the PCB before the announcement. Nevertheless, as the hosts and commercial partners of the ICC, the PCB is always willing to cooperate,” said a source within the PCB.
Trophy’s Global Journey
Following its Pakistan leg, the trophy will embark on a global tour, including stops in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, England, and India. The ICC plans to reveal the exact cities for the international stops in the coming days.
The Trophy Tour also includes engaging activities for fans, including a content series titled Champion on Tour, which will explore the intersections of cricket, food, and music across its global journey.
Tournament Hosting Challenges
Pakistan is the defending champion of the Champions Trophy, having defeated India in the 2017 final at The Oval, London. However, India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan for the tournament has led the ICC to explore alternative hosting options, including a hybrid model or relocation to a neutral venue such as the UAE or South Africa.
As the ICC continues discussions with the PCB, the Trophy Tour remains a key promotional effort, celebrating cricket’s spirit while navigating diplomatic sensitivities.
