Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson has expressed his disappointment over India’s decision to not travel to Pakistan for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy.
Speaking during the ICC Champions Trophy Tour in Sydney, Watson shared his regret about missing the opportunity to witness the historic India-Pakistan rivalry unfold in Pakistan.
“It’s unfortunate that things have turned out this way, but everyone loves watching India-Pakistan games,” Watson said, acknowledging the global allure of the intense rivalry between the two nations.
Reflecting on his own experience playing in Pakistan, Watson recalled the warm reception he received. “I had a small opportunity to play in the PSL in 2019, my first time back since 2005. It was one of the highlights of my career. Returning to Pakistan after so many years and seeing the passion they have for cricket was incredible. They had been starved of world-class live cricket,” he remarked.
Watson emphasized the significance of the event for Pakistan’s cricket fans. “It will be huge for Pakistan cricket fans to witness world-class players in their own country,” he added.
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will take place from February 19 to March 9, with matches in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi. India’s games will be held at neutral venues in the UAE.
The tournament will feature eight teams split into two groups. Group A will include Pakistan, India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, while Group B will have Afghanistan, Australia, England, and South Africa. Watson believes the tournament has the potential to reignite the excitement of international cricket in Pakistan.
“This tournament will light up Pakistan. It’s going to be a special event for the country and its cricket fans,” Watson concluded.
