The Champions Trophy is set to make its return after an eight-year gap, with reports suggesting that the Indian cricket captain might visit Pakistan for the tournament’s grand opening ceremony. Although India has agreed with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to play its matches on neutral territory in the UAE, the captain’s presence at the ceremony could be a significant gesture.
According to a report, the PCB is planning a spectacular opening ceremony, tentatively scheduled for February 16 or 17, with all team captains expected to attend, in line with standard ICC event practices. Sources informed that the Indian captain would travel to Pakistan for the event, which marks a major milestone as Pakistan hosts a prominent international cricket event after nearly three decades.
India’s last cricket tour to Pakistan occurred in 2008 during the Asia Cup, where they faced Sri Lanka in the final. The last encounter between India and Pakistan on Pakistani soil was also during the same tournament in the Super Four Stage, where India faced an eight-wicket defeat.
The 2025 Champions Trophy will commence on February 19, marking Pakistan’s first major ICC event as sole hosts since co-hosting the 1996 Cricket World Cup with India and Sri Lanka. The competition will follow a hybrid format, with most matches scheduled in Pakistan. However, all fixtures involving India, including the knockout stages if the team qualifies, will take place in the UAE.
