Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Vice President Rajeev Shukla has expressed his satisfaction with Pakistan’s arrangements for the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025, praising the organization of the event.
During his visit to Pakistan, Shukla stated, “It feels very good to be in Pakistan; the arrangements have been excellent here.”
Speaking about India’s performance, he emphasized that the Indian team does not rely on pitch conditions but rather on their own abilities.
Regarding the high demand for India-Pakistan encounters, he remarked, “Who wouldn’t want to see a Pakistan-India match? The hybrid model has been used twice, and both times it has been successful.”
He confirmed that all of India’s matches in the tournament will be held in Dubai due to logistical reasons. On the possibility of the final being played in Lahore, Shukla explained that this would have happened if Australia had won their semi-final match.
Addressing the issue of bilateral series between India and Pakistan, Shukla reiterated the BCCI’s long-standing policy that such series should be played on each other’s home soil rather than at neutral venues.
“The BCCI has always sought government clearance for any international tours,” he added, reaffirming that India’s participation in ICC events depends on government approval.
He also confirmed that in future ICC tournaments, India-Pakistan matches will continue to be scheduled at neutral venues, as per ICC regulations and government requirements.
With the hybrid model proving successful, Shukla acknowledged that the format has gained traction and is being closely considered for future tournaments.
