Champions Trophy 2025: ICC Unveils Global Trophy Tour Schedule Excluding PoK Locations

The ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025 Trophy Tour has started, with the trophy visiting the eight nations participating in the event.

Initially, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) planned to include stops in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) during the tour. This plan faced strong opposition from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). BCCI Secretary Jay Shah, who is set to become the ICC Chairman, criticised this decision. He argued it violated India's sovereignty and politicised sports. Consequently, the BCCI filed a formal complaint with the ICC against PCB's plan.

In response to India's objections, the PCB altered its itinerary. The revised schedule no longer includes PoK locations like Skardu, Hunza, and Muzaffarabad. This change was announced by the ICC on November 16. The situation has sparked renewed discussions about potential difficulties in hosting the Champions Trophy solely in Pakistan as initially intended.

The tour began on November 16 in Islamabad and features visits to notable Pakistani sites such as Daman-e-Koh, Faisal Mosque, and the Pakistan Monument. Former cricketer Shoaib Akhtar launched the tour, which will also stop at Abbottabad, Murree, Karachi, and other locations.

The ICC Trophy Tour aims to celebrate cricket's global appeal by highlighting food, music, and cultural diversity. After its journey through Pakistan, the trophy will visit Afghanistan, Bangladesh, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, England, and India before concluding just ahead of the tournament's start.

ICC Chief Commercial Officer Anurag Dahiya highlighted the tour's role in bringing cricket fans together worldwide: "The silverware, which will be showcased across all participating nations, will allow the sport's passionate fanbase to enjoy the unforgettable experience of being up close with the iconic trophy."