BCCI says govt behind India's refusal to play in Pakistan

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Vice President Rajeev Shukla expressed his admiration for the arrangements of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, commending the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for successfully organizing the tournament. 

Speaking to the media at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore during the second semi-final on Wednesday, Shukla addressed key aspects of Indo-Pak cricket relations and the role of governments in determining bilateral series.

Shukla stressed that while the cricketing world is eager to see India and Pakistan play against each other more frequently, the decision regarding the Indian team’s travel to Pakistan for any series remains with the Indian government.

"The Indian board has a clear policy that bilateral series will only be played in their respective countries.

Any decision regarding the Indian team traveling to Pakistan will be taken by the government," Shukla stated.

He also highlighted the success of the hybrid model, under which two major tournaments have already been conducted.

"Two events have been successfully held under the hybrid model, proving its viability," he remarked.

Shukla lauded the PCB’s efforts in hosting the Champions Trophy, calling it a well-organized tournament. He also dismissed any suggestions that India's victories were dependent on pitch conditions.

"The Indian team did not rely on pitch conditions for success," he asserted.

Had Australia won their semi-final match, the final of the Champions Trophy would have been played in Lahore, he revealed.

Shukla admitted the global anticipation for more India-Pakistan cricket matches, stating that various cricketing bodies are always keen to facilitate such contests.

"The world will always propose hosting India-Pakistan matches because fans from both countries want to see these teams compete," he concluded.