SPORTS
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed its commitment to following all International Cricket Council (ICC) regulations regarding team uniforms, including displaying the host nation's name as part of the tournament logo, during the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy.
This statement comes in response to reports suggesting that the ICC had issued a warning to the BCCI over its alleged reluctance to include the word "Pakistan" on Indian players’ kits. The Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9, 2025.
“BCCI will follow every uniform-related ICC rule during Champions Trophy,” stated Devajit Saikia, the Indian cricket board’s secretary, as reported by the Press Trust of India.
The controversy arose earlier when NDTV reported that the ICC had sent a "firm message" to the BCCI, emphasizing that all teams must display the tournament logo on their jerseys. According to state broadcaster PTV, the ICC dismissed any argument by the Indian board against displaying Pakistan’s name, insisting that compliance with tournament regulations is non-negotiable.
“The Indian board has, in fact, been asked by ICC that the Indian team is obligated to have ‘Pakistan’ written on the kit as the nation is the original host for the tournament,” PTV reported.
Political Tensions Loom Over Cricket
The controversy highlights the strained political relations between India and Pakistan, which have severely impacted cricketing ties. India and Pakistan last played a bilateral cricket series in 2012-13 when Pakistan toured India. Political tensions have since limited their encounters to ICC events and Asia Cup matches.
Due to these ongoing strains, the ICC recently introduced a hybrid hosting model for the Champions Trophy to accommodate both nations. Matches involving India will be held in Dubai, while the remaining games will be hosted in Pakistan. Similarly, future ICC events hosted in India will see Pakistan's matches shifted to neutral venues.
Opening Ceremony and Venue Preparations
Speculation also surrounds the participation of Indian captain Rohit Sharma and the team in the Champions Trophy's opening ceremony in Pakistan. However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) remains optimistic, recently inviting media representatives to inspect preparations at venues in Lahore and Karachi.
With both cricket boards navigating political and logistical challenges, fans worldwide eagerly await the tournament. The Champions Trophy promises high-stakes competition, showcasing cricket's ability to transcend geopolitical divides.