Pakistan denies coming to India for ICC Women's ODI World Cup 2025

The stage is set for the 2025 ICC Women's ODI World Cup, which will be hosted by India from September 29 to October 26. While the tournament promises to be a grand spectacle, the Pakistan Cricket Board has denied its team to travel to India. The Board has asked the ICC and BCCI to jointly decide the neutral venue for all Pakistan matches during the event.

The decision originates from a longstanding understanding between India and Pakistan where it was decided that when one nation hosts an ICC event, the other's teams will play at a neutral venue due to diplomatic tensions. The same was done during the recently held ICC Champions Trophy, where Team India played all their matches in Dubai despite Pakistan being the host nation.

The Pakistan women's team, led by Fatima Sana, qualified for the World Cup in grand fashion. The team stormed through the qualifiers by remaining unbeaten and winning five matches straight.

"Just like India, we're allowed to play at a neutral venue": Mohsin Naqvi

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed the team’s neutral venue status soon after their qualification. Speaking to India TV, he said the board had no issues playing away from India, as long as the agreement is upheld.

“Just like India didn’t play in Pakistan for the Champions Trophy and were allowed to compete at a neutral venue, we’ll follow the same path. Agreements are meant to be respected,” Naqvi stated.

Beyond the logistics, Naqvi was full of praise for the Women in Green. He applauded their team spirit and the way they capitalised on their home advantage during the qualifiers.

“The team played like a tight-knit unit. It’s great to see our women’s cricket rising — the effort, the energy, the passion. I’m proud of them,” he added.

To recognise their achievement, the PCB will soon announce a special reward for the squad — a gesture that mirrors the excitement surrounding their World Cup journey.