India's Champions Trophy Jersey To Feature Pakistan’s Name: BCCI Clears The Air

As the countdown to the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy begins, the Indian cricket team's jersey is set to prominently feature Pakistan's name, despite media rumors suggesting otherwise. On January 22, 2025, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that the Indian team will follow all guidelines set by the International Cricket Council (ICC), including wearing the official tournament logo with the host nation's name.

Photo Credit: X

India's Champions Trophy Jersey: BCCI Clears The Air

Saikia dismissed rumors that India had raised objections to the logo, explaining that the BCCI is committed to adhering to the ICC's dress code for the tournament. The 2025 Champions Trophy, scheduled to start on February 19, will be hosted by Pakistan, and India's jersey will reflect this with Pakistan's name beneath the tournament logo, as reported by India Today.

Why the Confusion?

Media reports had speculated that India might not wear the logo with Pakistan's name, considering the sensitive political backdrop and the fact that India will not be playing their group-stage matches in Pakistan. However, Saikia clarified that such rumors were baseless, emphasizing that the BCCI has no intention of violating any ICC regulations.

In line with international practice, it's customary for all participating teams to feature the host nation's name on their jerseys, even when the host is not a direct participant in certain matches. For instance, during the 2021 T20 World Cup, despite the UAE hosting the event, Pakistan's jersey carried India's name, as reported by India Today.

What's Next for India at the Champions Trophy?

India will kick off their Champions Trophy campaign in Dubai, where they'll play three crucial group-stage matches: against Bangladesh on February 20, Pakistan on February 23, and New Zealand on March 2. Should India make it to the semifinals and finals, the team will stay in Dubai, where the final match will be held, as per media reports.

This clarification from the BCCI puts to rest any doubts about India's adherence to the official tournament guidelines. With anticipation building for the Champions Trophy, all eyes will be on how the Indian team performs, on and off the field, with their official jersey proudly displaying Pakistan's name beneath the iconic Champions Trophy logo.