Geopolitics and Lack of Excitement Overshadow Champions Trophy’s Return to Pakistan

The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, marking its return after an eight-year hiatus, has been overshadowed by geopolitical tensions and a subdued atmosphere in host nation Pakistan. India’s refusal to play matches in Pakistan due to strained political relations led to a “hybrid model,” with India’s games, including the final, held in Dubai. This arrangement disrupted the tournament’s schedule, notably forcing South Africa into an 18-hour journey to Dubai for a semi-final, only to return to Pakistan for their match against New Zealand. Critics argue that the International Cricket Council (ICC), under chairman Jay Shah, a former secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), prioritized financial considerations over fairness, especially given India’s significant influence in the cricketing world. The lack of local enthusiasm in Pakistan, coupled with logistical challenges, further dampened the tournament’s success.