NEW DELHI: The former Indian cricket captain Kapil Dev expressed his views regarding ICC Champions Trophy venues and potential India-Pakistan matches, highlighting that such matters fall under governmental jurisdiction.
“It’s the government’s responsibility. It government says it’s ok, then it’s fine. People like us should not give opinions, our opinions don’t matter. Kapil Dev can’t be bigger than anyone else,” the 1983 World Cup-winning captain said.
The ICC announced a worldwide Trophy Tour for the Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled in Pakistan, following the cancellation of the trophy tour in Pakistan-occupied Jammu-Kashmir (PoJK).
The BCCI raised strong objections to PCB’s initial plans to conduct the Champions Trophy tour in contested regions of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, including Skardu, Hunza, and Muzaffarabad.
According to ANI sources, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah promptly opposed PCB’s unilateral decision and called for ICC intervention. Subsequently, the ICC suspended the tour and issued a revised schedule excluding PoJK locations.
In Islamabad, the trophy will be displayed at Daman-e-Koh, Faisal Mosque, and Pakistan Monument, accompanied by former Pakistani fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar.
The international Trophy Tour will commence with this event, offering unique engagement opportunities for global supporters through vibrant activities aligned with the event’s refreshed visual identity.
Following Islamabad, the tour will visit prominent Pakistani cities including Karachi, Abbottabad, and Taxila before proceeding internationally, showcasing the diverse cultures of participating nations.
The ICC stated, “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. 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.”
ICC Chief Commercial Officer Anurag Dahiya welcomed the event’s launch, stating as quoted from ICC, “We are delighted to launch the Trophy Tour with DP World ahead of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy, where another action-packed programme of activity is available to fans across the world.”
He elaborated on the fan experience, noting, “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.”