Pakistan’s Champions Trophy Ends on a Disappointing Note
Arshad Nadeem Steals the Spotlight
LAHORE: The Pakistan cricket team may not have made it to the semi-finals, but the nation still had a proud moment at the Gaddafi Stadium. Olympic javelin champion Arshad Nadeem graced the semi-final clash between South Africa and New Zealand, carrying the Champions Trophy in front of the spectators. Though the crowd was initially thin, it gradually grew as the match progressed into the evening.
The event marked a bittersweet moment for Pakistan, as this was the last match of the Champions Trophy 2025 hosted in Pakistan. Despite the excitement of an international tournament returning to home soil after nearly three decades, the home team’s early exit dampened the spirits of cricket fans. The scheduling of the match during the holy month of Ramadan and on a weekday also contributed to the relatively low turnout.
India Dominates the Tournament on Foreign Soil
While Pakistan had hoped for a grand tournament at home, the hybrid hosting model played in favor of India. Due to political tensions, India refused to travel to Pakistan, playing all its matches in Dubai. This arrangement between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) ensured that if India reached the final, it would be played in Dubai.
Staying true to their dominant form, India thrashed Australia in the first semi-final, securing their place in the final showdown. This meant Pakistan lost its chance to host the grand finale, a decision that left many disappointed.
Shukla’s Take on Indo-Pak Cricket Relations
Among the many dignitaries present at the Gaddafi Stadium was Rajeev Shukla, the vice-president of BCCI. His presence stirred curiosity among journalists, especially about the possibility of reviving bilateral cricketing ties between India and Pakistan.
Speaking to reporters, Shukla remained diplomatic when asked about Pakistan’s missed opportunity to host the final. “You should’ve asked Australia to win,” he joked, dodging the underlying frustration of Pakistani fans and officials.
When asked about the possibility of Indo-Pak matches on neutral venues, Shukla acknowledged the massive fan following the rivalry enjoys. However, he made it clear that BCCI follows government directives, and any decision about India’s visit to Pakistan would have to come from the Indian government.
“It’s true that fans want to see this contest,” he admitted. “But as a matter of policy, the BCCI has always emphasized hosting bilateral tournaments on home soil.”
Why Do India and Pakistan Only Meet in ICC Events?
India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral series since 2012-13, and their encounters have been limited to ICC and ACC tournaments. Several factors contribute to this prolonged hiatus:
- Political Tensions: Relations between the two governments have been strained, making any sporting engagement a sensitive issue.
- Security Concerns: India has often cited security issues as a reason for not touring Pakistan.
- Broadcast and Sponsorship Issues: A bilateral series between the two nations attracts massive viewership, but political constraints make securing long-term broadcast deals challenging.
- BCCI’s Stance: Unlike PCB, which has often advocated for resumption, BCCI remains firm that government approval is necessary.
What This Means for Cricket Fans
Cricket fans on both sides of the border continue to be deprived of high-voltage bilateral matches. While ICC tournaments provide occasional encounters, they lack the continuity and thrill of a full-fledged series.
For now, Pakistan and India will continue to meet only in global tournaments, with the next possible encounter coming in the T20 World Cup 2026.
FAQs
1. Why don’t India and Pakistan play bilateral series anymore?
Due to political tensions, security concerns, and the stance of the BCCI, India has refrained from touring Pakistan. Any series requires approval from the Indian government.
2. When was the last time India and Pakistan played a bilateral series?
The last time they faced off in a bilateral series was in 2012-13, when Pakistan toured India for an ODI and T20 series.
3. Can India and Pakistan play a series on neutral venues?
While there have been discussions about playing in neutral venues, BCCI remains adamant about hosting matches on home soil, following government directives.
4. What is the hybrid hosting model in the Champions Trophy 2025?
Due to India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan, a hybrid model was implemented. Pakistan hosted some matches, while India played all their games in Dubai.
5. Will India and Pakistan meet in the 2026 T20 World Cup?
Yes, unless there are changes in the tournament structure, India and Pakistan are expected to face off in the T20 World Cup 2026.
ALSO READ
https://flarenews.pk/2025/03/06/new-zealand-vs-india-champions-trophy-final/
