|| CF DESK ||

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has designated Lahore as the exclusive venue for the matches involving India in the upcoming Champions Trophy, an eight-team, 50-over cricket tournament set to commence in mid-February next year, according to Cricbuzz.

While the final schedule for the tournament is yet to be released, the PCB has also identified Karachi and Rawalpindi as additional host cities.

India's participation in Pakistan remains uncertain due to ongoing political tensions between the two nations, underscored by India's refusal to cross the border for the Asia Cup last year.

However, the PCB’s decision to host India's matches in Lahore reflects careful consideration of several factors. Given Lahore's proximity to the Indian border, this arrangement could facilitate easier cross-border travel for fans via the Wagah border crossing, providing them with a straightforward route to support their team.

Additionally, centralizing India's matches in a single location aims to streamline logistics and minimize travel complications for the team, reducing the need to move between multiple venues.

By keeping the Indian team in Lahore, the PCB hopes to ensure a smoother and more secure experience for players and support staff.

The PCB has shared its proposed Champions Trophy blueprint and designated venues with the International Cricket Council (ICC), indicating their readiness to host this major cricket event.