A controversy has erupted ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to reports that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has refused to display the name “Pakistan” on Team India’s jerseys.
The tournament is set to follow a hybrid model, with Pakistan as the official host. However, India’s matches have been moved to Dubai after India declined to play in Pakistan.
This decision has drawn criticism from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), which has accused India of mixing politics with sports. PCB officials have stated that such actions violate ICC regulations and harm the spirit of cricket. They believe it undermines the integrity of the sport by prioritizing political differences over fair play.
In another move that has added to the tensions, the BCCI reportedly decided not to send Indian captain Rohit Sharma to Pakistan for the captains’ meeting and opening ceremony. This has further strained relations between the two cricket boards.
The situation has sparked debates among cricket fans and experts, with many calling for the ICC to step in and address the issue. Critics argue that such controversies distract from the game itself and tarnish the reputation of international cricket.
As the Champions Trophy approaches, these developments raise concerns about the smooth execution of the tournament and the future of cricketing relations between India and Pakistan.
