Champions Trophy: Captains’ Meet and Opening Ceremony to Take Place in Pakistan Amid Ongoing Visa Discussions

The Champions Trophy 2025 will commence with grand celebrations in Pakistan, where the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is organizing the captains’ meet and the opening ceremony. Despite security concerns preventing India from traveling to Pakistan, the PCB is confident that India’s captain, Rohit Sharma, will attend the event.

The opening ceremony is scheduled for either February 16 or 17, ahead of the first match on February 19 in Karachi. While the dates for the customary captains’ photo-shoot and press conference are still to be finalized by the ICC, sources confirm that PCB has made arrangements for all necessary clearances, including for Indian representatives.

India, citing security issues, will play all its matches in Dubai, beginning with a game against Bangladesh on February 20. However, the PCB insists that the opening ceremony in Pakistan will follow the traditional protocol, involving all eight teams and their captains.

In preparation for the event, the PCB has issued visas to three Indian nationals as part of an ICC delegation visiting Pakistan, reflecting their commitment to ensuring full participation. Although logistical challenges persist, both the PCB and ICC are working together to ensure a successful Champions Trophy despite the ongoing geopolitical complexities.

“This includes Rohit or any other Indian team player, official, or board representative,” a PCB source stated.