The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly come under fire from the International Cricket Council (ICC) over its alleged refusal to include ‘Pakistan’ on its team’s kits for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. The tournament, scheduled from February 19 to March 9, will be hosted by Pakistan, adding a layer of geopolitical tension to the already charged situation.

Responding to reports, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia insisted that the board would adhere to all ICC uniform regulations. “BCCI will follow every uniform-related ICC rule during the Champions Trophy,” Saikia stated to the Press Trust of India.

However, the controversy escalated after Pakistan’s state broadcaster, PTV, reported that the ICC had issued a stern warning to the Indian board, rejecting its alleged resistance to displaying the host nation’s name on team kits. “It is the responsibility of every team to add the tournament logo to their jerseys. All teams are obligated to comply with this rule,” an ICC official reportedly told NDTV.

Tensions Run Deep

India and Pakistan’s strained political relations have long spilled over into cricket. Bilateral series between the two nations have been nonexistent since 2012-13, and India has not played on Pakistani soil since the 2008 Asia Cup. Conversely, Pakistan has continued to send teams to India for ICC events.

To navigate these tensions, the ICC recently approved a hybrid hosting model for the Champions Trophy. All matches involving India will be played in Dubai, while Pakistan retains hosting rights for the rest of the tournament. A similar arrangement will ensure that Pakistan’s matches in future India-hosted ICC events are held at neutral venues.

Despite these efforts, questions linger about India’s participation in Pakistan-based events. Speculation is rife over whether Indian captain Rohit Sharma or the team will attend the Champions Trophy’s opening ceremony in Pakistan.

PCB Welcomes Media Amid Preparation Concerns

Amid these controversies, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) sought to dispel doubts about the readiness of its venues. On Monday, the PCB hosted media representatives for a tour of stadiums in Lahore and Karachi, assuring them of the facilities’ preparedness for the high-profile tournament.

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