As the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 nears, uncertainty surrounds India’s participation in the tournament, primarily due to ongoing political tensions and increasing calls for boycotts. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has yet to announce its provisional squad, raising questions about whether India will take part in the event, scheduled to take place in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9, 2025.
Political Context and Boycott Calls
The uncertainty stems from the long-standing political issues between India and Pakistan, which have historically impacted cricketing relations. Recently, several UK politicians have called for the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to boycott matches against Afghanistan, citing concerns over the Taliban’s treatment of women. This has prompted similar calls for boycotts from South Africa’s sports minister, who has raised objections to matches against Afghanistan due to the regime’s stance on women’s rights.
When Will the BCCI Announce India’s Squad?
Despite the growing boycott calls, BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla confirmed that the selection meeting for the Champions Trophy will likely take place on January 19. He told reporters at the BCCI’s headquarters following a Special General Meeting, where Devajit Saikia and Prabhtej Singh Bhatia were announced as the new BCCI secretary and treasurer, that the squad would likely be revealed on January 19.
BCCI considers candidates to replace Rohit Sharma as Team India captain.
According to ICC regulations, all teams were required to submit their provisional squads by January 12. However, the BCCI has requested an extension. While teams are usually expected to announce their squads a month before the tournament, the ICC has granted a five-week window this time, allowing teams to make changes to their squads if necessary.
