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Like the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 approaches, concerns are rising over India’s participation in the tournament, especially due to ongoing political tensions and calls for a boycott from various quarters. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has yet to announce its provisional squad, leading to speculation over whether India will eventually decide to take part in the event to be held in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9, 2025.
Political context and boycott calls
The background to this uncertainty has its roots in the complex relationship between India and Pakistan, which has historically influenced cricketing ties. Recently, several UK politicians have urged the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to boycott matches against Afghanistan because of the Taliban’s treatment of women, a move that could set a precedent for other nations. South Africa’s sports minister has also advocated for a boycott of matches against Afghanistan, citing similar concerns about women’s rights under the Taliban regime.
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When will BCCI announce India squad?
Amid the boycott call, BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla has confirmed that the selection meeting for the ICC Champions Trophy is likely to be held on January 19.
“The Champions Trophy squad is likely to be announced on January 19.” Shukla told reporters at the BCCI headquarters on Sunday, right after the special general meeting where Devajit Saikia and Prabhtej Singh Bhatia were announced as the new secretary and treasurer of the BCCI.
According to ICC regulations, all teams had to submit their provisional squads by 23:59 on January 12. However, the BCCI may request an extension. Normally, teams have to announce their squads a month before the tournament, but this time the ICC has extended the deadline to five weeks. Teams will still have the flexibility to make changes to their teams later if needed.
