Pakistan likely to invite India to play bilateral T20I series at 'neutral venue'

In a bid to resume cricket relations with the neighbouring country, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly decided to propose a 'neutral venue' to Indian authorities for a T20I series between the arch-rivals, according to sources.

The series is scheduled to take place after next year's Champions Trophy, sources said on Monday.

The PCB Chairman has traveled to Colombo for a cricket board meeting to discuss security arrangements in Pakistan during the mega event, slated to take place in February and March 2025.

A meeting with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah is also imminent.

As per reports, the cricket body chief, in the meeting, may propose shifting the venue for the India-Pakistan T20I series, scheduled for 2025, from Lahore to a neutral location.

Political tensions have prevented Green Shirts and Blue Shirts from playing bilateral cricket since 2012. Both teams have only faced off in ICC tournaments since then.

According to sources, it is unlikely that the Indian cricket team will receive government approval to participate in the Champions Trophy, hosted by Pakistan, due to security and political concerns.

However, the PCB has made considerable efforts to assure India of foolproof security measures. The board is committed to hosting the Champions Trophy entirely in Lahore.

According to sources, a new five-star hotel will be built near the cricket stadium to reduce travel time and enhance security arrangements.