Will India go to Pakistan to play the Champions Trophy? There are numerous reports suggesting that the Men in Blue might not travel to the neighboring country due to political tensions between the two nations. However, the 2017 Champions Trophy winners, Pakistan, are eager to host India for CT 2025, knowing the significant positive impact, especially in terms of monetary gain. While many argue that India should not travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, we would like to present three points that counter this notion, discussing why India should indeed travel to Pakistan for the prestigious tournament.
Why should India go to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy?
Massive fan following
There is no doubt about how much the Pakistani public loves cricket. Many Pakistan cricket fans consider Indian cricketers their heroes, from Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma. Although Kohli visited the neighboring country as an U-19 cricketer in 2006, he has never played senior-level cricket in Pakistan. The next Champions Trophy could be the only opportunity for him or for Rohit Sharma as well to play in that neighboring country.
We have seen in the past, such as during the 2004 Test series and ODIs, how the India cricket team received massive love during their tour. There is no doubt that if India travels for the Champions Trophy in 2025, we may see the same affection from the Pakistani public.
Cricketers’ wishes
Not only is the Pakistani public excited about the possibility, but Indian cricketers are also willing to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. Recent example is Kuldeep Yadav, who has expressed a desire to travel to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Also, a few months ago reports came where Hasan Ali claimed Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and other Indian cricketers would like to visit Pakistan. If these claims are true, the BCCI may consider fulfilling this wish, taking into account how they can plan the tour.
Hosting reputation
Another important factor to consider is that if India does not travel to Pakistan, it may negatively impact India’s reputation on the global stage. India is set to host the T20 World Cup in 2026, the Champions Trophy, and the ODI World Cup in 2029 and 2031.
If India does not visit Pakistan, there might be retaliation from Pakistan in these upcoming tournaments, where they could potentially choose not to participate. Such a situation would not benefit either nation, as both aim to maintain peaceful relations. Since hosting reputation is crucial, this is another reason why India should consider traveling to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy.
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