It’s unfortunate that India aren’t travelling to Pakistan for this Champions Trophy: Shane Watson

Shane Watson. (Photo Source: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images/Getty Images)

After a long-awaited call, the International Cricket Council (ICC) declared the schedule for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025. Pakistan, originally proposed as the sole host for the tournament, was opposed by India due to their government’s refusal to travel to the neighbouring nation. As a result, the apex authority, in co-ordination with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that the tournament will be co-hosted, with Dubai as venue for India matches.

Soon after confirming Pakistan and Dubai as the co-hosts, the ICC further revealed the fixtures for the marquee event, starting February 19 as the Men in Green would take on New Zealand in the tournament opener. Meanwhile, former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson expressed his opinions on BCCI not willing to travel to the neighbour nation for the eight-team tournament. Watson remarked it as an unfortunate happening on the way things panned out between both the boards ahead of the tournament.

“It’s unfortunate that things have worked out that way, for sure. But there’s no doubt that what everyone loves seeing — the India-Pakistan games. Whenever they come together, whether it’s an ICC event, it is a really special time because we’ve got a sense of what’s on the line,” Watson told the media during the trophy tour as quoted by NDTV Sports.

“It’s unfortunate that India aren’t travelling to Pakistan for this Champions Trophy. But, unfortunately, that’s just the way it is right now,” the 2015 World Cup winner added.

Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Imam-ul-Haq, Fakhar Zaman likely to return to Pakistan squad for title defence

Speaking more of the India-Pakistan rivalry, the two nations crossed swords at the Oval during the 2017 edition of the Champions Trophy, where the Men in Green lifted the silverware, on the back of a terrific ton by Fakhar Zaman. Notably, Zaman scored 114 off just 106 balls and set the tone for Pakistan, and India’s batting unit faltered badly. Although, Hardik Pandya did counterattack with some fierce strokeplay after the top-order failed, however, a run out due to fumble with Ravindra Jadeja meant that India never recovered in the game, as Sarfaraz Khan-led side were named the ultimate winners.