Former Australian cricketer Shane Watson has expressed disappointment over India’s decision to not travel to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Speaking during the ICC Champions Trophy Tour, Watson termed the move as "unfortunate" and emphasized the significance of the India-Pakistan cricket rivalry for fans around the globe.
Importance of the India-Pakistan Rivalry
Watson, renowned for his all-rounder capabilities, highlighted the unparalleled excitement that India-Pakistan matches bring to international cricket.
“Whenever they come together in ICC events, it’s a special moment because the stakes are always high. From an Australian perspective, our rivalry with England is monumental, but the India-Pakistan rivalry is on another level. It’s unfortunate that fans will miss out on seeing India play in Pakistan,” Watson said.
A Monumental Event for Pakistan Cricket
Despite the setback, Watson expressed optimism for Pakistan cricket fans, calling the Champions Trophy a landmark event for the nation. Reflecting on his experience in Pakistan during the Pakistan Super League (PSL), Watson praised the passion and love of Pakistani fans for the game.
“I played in the PSL in 2019, and it was a career highlight. After so many years, being able to return to Pakistan and witness the joy of fans starved of world-class cricket was an incredible experience,” he shared.
Watson represented Islamabad United and Quetta Gladiators during his six PSL seasons, amassing 1,361 runs in 46 matches at an impressive strike rate of 138.59.
Champions Trophy 2025: Schedule and Details
The ICC announced the schedule for the much-anticipated Champions Trophy on December 24, 2024. The tournament, running from February 19 to March 9, 2025, will feature eight teams competing across three venues in Pakistan—Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi—and one in Dubai.
Group Division:
- Group A: Pakistan, India, New Zealand, Bangladesh
- Group B: Afghanistan, South Africa, England, Australia
Hosts Pakistan will kick off the tournament against New Zealand in Karachi on February 19, while the much-awaited Pakistan-India clash is scheduled for February 23 in Dubai.
Matches Moved to Dubai
Out of the 15 matches, Pakistan will host 10 at home, while four matches—including all three of India’s group-stage games and the first semi-final—will take place in Dubai. The final is scheduled to be held in Lahore, but if India qualifies, it will also be shifted to Dubai.
Impact on Cricket
Watson’s comments reflect a broader sentiment of disappointment among cricket fans and players over India’s absence from matches in Pakistan. While political tensions have long overshadowed sporting ties between the two nations, cricket enthusiasts continue to hope for a revival of the historic rivalry on Pakistani soil.
As the Champions Trophy draws closer, Pakistan is set to deliver a world-class tournament that will undoubtedly showcase the country’s passion for cricket and its readiness to host major international events.
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