Rohit Sharma to defy government orders and travel to Pakistan

There’s growing excitement around the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, which is scheduled to take place in Pakistan and Dubai from February 19. Team India captain Rohit Sharma is expected to visit Pakistan ahead of the event to participate in a photo shoot and press conference organized by the ICC.

There was initial uncertainty regarding Team India’s participation in the Champions Trophy, which is hosted by Pakistan, due to ongoing tensions between the two countries. However, the ICC managed to find a solution, ensuring both nations would be offered a neutral venue when hosting ICC tournaments.

Rohit Sharma to Travel to Pakistan for ICC Champions Trophy 2025?

The hosting nation typically organizes a significant event with all participating captains. This event includes an all-captains photo shoot and a press conference where the skippers share their expectations for the tournament. For the upcoming Champions Trophy, all eight captains are expected to attend.

The official confirmation regarding Rohit Sharma’s travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy has not yet been announced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). There is speculation that he may attend the event’s all-captains photo shoot and press conference, which is organized by the host nation, reported Sports Tak but nothing has been confirmed as of now.

Rohit Sharma Has Never Visited Pakistan During His International Career

It’s worth mentioning that Rohit Sharma has never visited Pakistan during his international career. If he does travel, it would be a historic moment, as it has been years since an Indian cricketer has traveled to Pakistan for an international event.

Team India shares the record for the most Champions Trophy titles, alongside Australia, with two victories. They shared the 2002 edition with Sri Lanka after weather conditions prevented a proper match.

India’s second title came in 2013 when they defeated England at Edgbaston. Notably, they were runners-up in 2017, losing to Pakistan by 180 runs, and in 2000, when they were defeated by New Zealand by four wickets.

India Preparing for White-Ball Series Against England at Home

India is currently preparing for their white-ball series against England, comprising three ODIs before the Champions Trophy. The team is placed in Group A, alongside Bangladesh, New Zealand, and Pakistan. India will open their campaign on February 20 against Bangladesh at the Dubai International Stadium.

All of India’s group-stage matches will be held in Dubai, including their highly anticipated clash against Pakistan on February 23. Their final league match is scheduled for March 2 against New Zealand.

If India advances to the semi-finals, they will play on March 4. Dubai International Stadium will host the final if India advances to the summit clash, while Pakistan will host the final if India doesn’t qualify.

India’s Champions Trophy schedule:

Also read: BCCI to punish Rohit, Kohli and others, underperforming stars to face financial blow