Champions Trophy 2025: Kapil Dev's sharp take on Champions Trophy controversy sparks debate
Xtra Time Web Desk: Kapil Dev, the former Indian cricket team captain, recently shared his views on the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, specifically commenting on the possible India-Pakistan match and the venues for the event. He emphasized that such decisions rest with the government, stating, "It's the government's responsibility. People like us should not give opinions, our opinions don't matter. Kapil Dev can't be bigger than anyone else."
This remark came after the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the launch of the global Trophy Tour for the Men's Champions Trophy 2025, which will be hosted by Pakistan. The tour, initially planned to include cities in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), was met with strong objections from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). BCCI Secretary Jay Shah condemned the PCB's decision to include PoJK locations such as Skardu, Hunza, and Muzaffarabad, urging the ICC to take decisive action. As a result, the ICC postponed the tour and revised the itinerary, excluding PoJK.
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The Trophy Tour will now begin in Islamabad, with prominent landmarks such as Daman-e-Koh, Faisal Mosque, and the Pakistan Monument as key display sites. Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar will join the tour to celebrate the event. Following Islamabad, the tour will travel to major cities like Karachi, Abbottabad, and Taxila, before embarking on an international journey, engaging global fans through both physical and digital experiences.
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ICC Chief Commercial Officer Anurag Dahiya expressed excitement about the event, emphasizing the opportunity for fans to engage with the trophy through activities that highlight food, music, and cricket. He said, "We are delighted to launch the Trophy Tour with DP World ahead of the ICC Men's Champions Trophy, where another action-packed programme of activity is available to fans across the world."
