India’s preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 have been clouded by rising tensions between the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
In a break from tradition, the Indian team, under captain Rohit Sharma, will not display Pakistan’s name on their jerseys, despite the event being hosted by Pakistan. This decision is being made against the backdrop of growing political and security issues between the two nations.
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While the Champions Trophy will take place in Pakistan, India has chosen to base their team in Dubai due to ongoing security concerns. The PCB has strongly criticized this decision, interpreting it as a diplomatic insult.
A PCB official criticized the move, accusing the BCCI of politicizing the sport, and highlighted the refusal to send India’s captain to the opening ceremony as a direct challenge to the event’s integrity.
India’s refusal to include Pakistan’s name on their jerseys is viewed as an attempt to undermine the host country, breaking the usual practice of incorporating the host nation’s name into team apparel. The PCB official warned that such actions could undermine the spirit of the tournament and urged the ICC to intervene and prevent further political involvement in cricket.
The issue intensifies as both countries prepare for a high-profile clash during the tournament, with India scheduled to play Pakistan on February 23, followed by a match with New Zealand on March 2. This tournament marks India’s return to ICC competition since their victory in the 2013 Champions Trophy under MS Dhoni’s leadership.
