Lahore (Pakistan News Online) Indian sports journalist Vikrant Gupta and senior Pakistani journalist Hamid Mir discussed India’s decision to opt out of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan. The two experts explored the underlying factors of security, diplomatic tensions, and political dynamics that have influenced India’s stance.
During an exclusive conversation on Samaa News, Indian sports journalist Vikrant Gupta shared insights on the evolving circumstances that led India to reconsider its participation in the Champions Trophy in Pakistan. Gupta explained that, while he previously anticipated India would send its team to Pakistan, changes in diplomatic relations and security concerns over the past few months have impacted this decision. “About a year ago, the situation was different,” Gupta remarked, noting that the political environment has shifted.
He further expressed sympathy for Pakistan as the tournament host, acknowledging Pakistan’s right to raise concerns over India’s withdrawal. Gupta also highlighted that the matter is out of the hands of cricket boards and rests with the governments of both countries, making the ICC and PCB responsible for any further steps.
Pakistani journalist Hamid Mir referenced Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar’s October 2024 visit to Pakistan for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, where diplomatic exchanges indicated improving relations. Mir revealed that informal channels initially suggested India’s team would participate in the Champions Trophy. However, he noted that recent undisclosed developments appear to have influenced India’s stance.
According to Mir, the lack of transparency from both governments on recent setbacks has fueled speculation. “If India’s official stance is based on terrorism concerns, then why did Jaishankar come to Pakistan?” Mir questioned, referring to Jaishankar’s visit and positive statements made at that time. He suggested that behind-the-scenes diplomatic hurdles have disrupted progress, with both governments refraining from publicizing details.
Hamid Mir pointed out potential contrasts in policy between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. The latter, reportedly through Ishaq Dar, had been working to improve relations between India and Pakistan, including in the sports arena.
Mir added that only weeks before India’s decision, backdoor communications indicated their willingness to participate. Ultimately, though, unforeseen developments led India to revise its stance, underscoring the diplomatic complexities at play.