Champions Trophy 2025, Kapil Dev: It's the Government's Responsibility

Former Indian team captain Kapil Dev revealed the Champions Trophy 2025 venues and the possibility of an Indian-Pakistan match by expressing that it is the full responsibility of the government. 

Commenting on the issue, Kapil Dev remarked, "It’s the government's responsibility. People like us should not give opinions, our opinions don’t matter. Kapil Dev can’t be bigger than anyone else."  

Earlier, the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Saturday introduced a global Trophy Tour ahead of the Men’s Champions which is all set to be hosted by Pakistan. 

The announcement came after the ICC nullified the trophy tour in the Pakistan-occupied Jammu-Kashmir (PoJK).

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has against the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) plan to hold the Champions Trophy 2025 tour in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) such as Skardu, Hunza and Muzaffarabad.

BCCI sources informed ANI that Secretary Jay Shah quickly condemned the PCB's decision, calling on the ICC to take firm action. The PCB announced the tour without prior consultation, prompting a strong objection from the BCCI.

In response, the ICC suspended the tour and issued a revised schedule that excluded the PoJK cities from the itinerary.

On the opening day of its tour in Islamabad, the trophy will be showcased at iconic landmarks such as Daman-e-Koh, Faisal Mosque, and the Pakistan Monument, where it will be accompanied by former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar.

This marks the beginning of the international Trophy Tour, which will offer exciting and vibrant fan experiences, featuring a refreshed visual identity that connects with global audiences.

Following its stop in Islamabad, the Champions Trophy 2025 trophy tour will travel to Pakistan's iconic cities and landmarks, including Karachi, Abbottabad, and Taxila, before departing the country.

"A series of physical and digital engagements traversing iconic destinations, sporting events, and key battles in the international cricket calendar form the Trophy Tour schedule," ICC said in its statement."Fans will be treated to a content series titled `Champion on Tour` that will document the Trophy Tour`s journey around the world through the unique lens of food, music, and cricket," the statement added.

Anurag Dahiya, ICC's Chief Commercial Officer, shared his excitement about the event's launch, stating, "We are thrilled to kick off the Trophy Tour with DP World ahead of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy, offering another action-packed series of activities for fans around the globe."

He went on to describe the experience that awaited fans and added, "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."