What Does Shane Watson Think About India Not Travelling to Pakistan for Champions Trophy 2025?

Former renowned Australian all-rounder Shane Watson has termed India’s decision to not travel to Pakistan for Champions Trophy 2025 as ‘unfortunate.’

Watson further emphasized on the India-Pakistan rivalry and the excitement it brings to fans and cricketers alike. As per Watson, having to miss out on such a thrilling encounter is a sad moment for the Indo-Pak cricket fans. 

“There’s no doubt that everyone loves watching the India-Pakistan game. From an Australian cricket perspective, we know how big the rivalry is between us and England. The India-Pakistan rivalry is just as huge, no cricket fan wants to miss that game,” stated Shane Watson. 

To further highlight the importance of playing in Pakistan, Watson recalled the time when he went to play in the Pakistan Super League. 

“I got a small opportunity to play for the Pakistan Super League in 2019, the first time after playing there in 2005. It was one of the highlights of my career. To go to Pakistan after such a long time and see the love and joy they have for cricket is incredible.”

The ICC Champions Trophy is making a comeback after its last edition was played in 2017. The upcoming edition is set to take place from February 19th to March 9. 

Pakistan is the defending champion and the host of the 2025 edition. The matches are scheduled to take place in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi in Pakistan and UAE will serve as a neutral host for all of India’s matches. 

The eight participating teams are divided into two groups of four. Group A consists of India, Pakistan, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, whereas Group B includes Afghanistan, Australia, England, and South Africa. 

With such competent teams and a stage as grand as the ICC Champions Trophy, the fans are setting themselves up for 3 weeks of intense competition, nail-biting moments, and fiercest knocks!