Champions Trophy 2025: Rohit Sharma's Pakistan Travel ‘Not on BCCI Agenda Yet'

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Uncertainty looms over whether India captain Rohit Sharma will travel to Pakistan for the ICC captains' event ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025. Tentatively set for February 16-17 in Karachi, the event typically occurs in the host nation.

However, the BCCI has yet to receive formal communication from the ICC regarding the event or Rohit's potential attendance. Speaking to *ESPNcricinfo*, Devjit Saikia, BCCI's recently appointed secretary, stated, "It [Rohit travelling to Pakistan] has not yet been discussed. It is not on the agenda yet."

Whether the BCCI requires clearance from the Indian government for such a visit remains unclear. The political tensions between India and Pakistan add complexity to the situation. India last played international cricket in Pakistan in 2008, and bilateral series between the two nations have been on hold since 2012. While Pakistan has visited India for ICC events, India's matches for the Champions Trophy 2025 will be held in Dubai under a hybrid model agreed upon by the ICC and PCB, aimed at addressing geopolitical sensitivities.

Interestingly, the PCB has reportedly asked the ICC to ensure all captains are present for the pre-tournament photoshoot and ceremonial engagements in Pakistan. Whether the ICC can fulfil this request remains to be seen. Notably, the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup skipped an official captains' event due to logistical challenges, instead opting for a digital launch.

In another development, Saikia assured that India will comply with ICC uniform protocols for the Champions Trophy, putting to rest rumors about objections to the host nation's name on jerseys. "BCCI will follow every uniform-related ICC rule during the Champions Trophy," he told PTI.

The BCCI's cautious approach to player participation in Pakistan reflects the broader sensitivities surrounding cricket relations between the two nations. Whether Rohit Sharma will represent India at the captains' event remains unresolved, keeping the cricketing world on edge.