A new controversy has arisen prior to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, as India has expressed their disapproval against having the host country, i.e., Pakistan, inscribed on the tournament jersey. Notably, the hybrid hosting model has distributed matches across Pakistan and Dubai, the match schedule in India includes all matches played in Dubai without the need to travel to Pakistan. Yet, this problem of jersey advertising has roused a new controversy.
Reportedly, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in agreement with the International Cricket Council (ICC) adopted the hybrid model after the BCCI refused to visit Pakistan and return the overseas team. Even through this compromise, a PCB insider disclosed that BCCI is resisting the name of Pakistan being included as the host country on Team India jerseys.
PCB says BCCI is introducing politics in cricket too
“BCCI is introducing politics into cricket and that is not healthy for the game”, the official told IANS. “They refused to travel to Pakistan. But reportedly, they are now negative towards the name of the host nation on their jerseys. We believe that the ICC will stand by Pakistan and maintain fairness.“
It is not the first time that political unrest has permeated the event. Recently, BCCI supposedly denied permission to Indian captain Rohit Sharma to attend the captain’s meeting in Pakistan, a time-honored curtain-raiser of the Champions Trophy.
The PCB has voiced its displeasure for what it describes as India’s habitual politicization of sports, although the BCCI has stood with its position. Although PCB has done its best to keep a balanced hosting arrangement, the controversy could lead to more tension in cricketing relations between the two countries.
There is another layer of friction to an already contentious event with a month to go until the Champions Trophy begins, in the jersey row.
Also, see: Hybrid model finally accepted for Champions Trophy 2025