Even though the International Cricket Council (ICC) has yet to confirm the final schedule for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, it flew the trophy to Pakistan on Thursday for a nationwide tour set to begin on November 16. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced on social media that the tour will visit several cities across the country, including regions in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). This move has raised eyebrows, with critics viewing it as a provocation, given the politically sensitive nature of the region.  

The announcement comes at a time of heightened tensions, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirming that the Indian team will not travel to Pakistan due to ongoing diplomatic issues and security concerns. Despite this, Pakistan maintains the rights to host the prestigious tournament.  

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In a post on Thursday, the PCB shared details of the trophy's itinerary, saying, "Get ready, Pakistan. The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 trophy tour kicks off in Islamabad on November 16, and will also visit scenic travel destinations like Skardu, Murree, Hunza, and Muzaffarabad." The tour will cover major cities where matches are expected to be held, though the venues remain uncertain.  

The arrival of the trophy is especially significant given that the ICC has asked the PCB to consider hosting the event in a hybrid format after India made it clear it would not send its team to Pakistan. This has led to speculation over how the tournament will proceed, especially regarding potential matches between India and Pakistan.  

The original plan was for the trophy to be unveiled in Lahore earlier this month, but the event was delayed due to two factors: India’s refusal to play in Pakistan and a hazardous smog situation in the city. As a result, the ICC brought the trophy to Islamabad on Thursday, with officials flying it in from Dubai.  

The trophy tour, which will conclude on November 24, is part of the ICC’s strategy to generate excitement for the tournament, set to take place from February 19 to March 9 next year. However, the lack of clarity on the schedule and India’s participation continues to overshadow the event.  

“What is the purpose of this trophy tour when no one really knows where the tournament will be held or whether India and Pakistan will even play each other?” questioned former Pakistan Test captain Moin Khan. “Cricket fans are eagerly waiting for the final schedule,” he added. "It's strange to have a trophy tour without the schedule being announced."  

With so many uncertainties still hanging over the tournament, the next few months will likely see further developments, particularly regarding how the ICC plans to navigate the logistical and political challenges of holding the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan. (With inputs from Agencies)