The Indian Jersey for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has been officially unveiled. The new kit, showcased on Monday, features the name “Pakistan”, the tournament’s host country, which has led to controversy. Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, Hardik Pandya, and Arshdeep Singh were seen posing in the fresh design, which has sparked discussions among fans and experts alike.
Why is ‘Pakistan’ Printed on the Indian Jersey?
In line with ICC traditions, the host nation’s name is typically printed on every team’s jersey. This time, the phrase “Champions Trophy 2025, Pakistan” appears on the Indian Jersey. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) initially objected, arguing that since India is not playing in Pakistan, there was no need for the name to be featured.
The matter was eventually settled following ICC intervention, and BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that the board would adhere to ICC regulations despite its earlier resistance.
First Time ‘Pakistan’ Appears on an Indian Jersey
This marks the first time in recent years that Pakistan’s name has been featured on an Indian Jersey. During the Asia Cup 2023, which was partially hosted in Pakistan, no team had the host country’s name on their jersey.
Indian Players Shine in ICC Awards
The unveiling of the Indian Jersey also coincided with several Indian cricketers receiving ICC Awards:
- Rohit Sharma – Named in the ICC ODI Team of the Year
- Ravindra Jadeja – Selected for the ICC Test Team of the Year
- Hardik Pandya & Arshdeep Singh – Included in the ICC T20 Team of the Year
- Arshdeep Singh – Honored as the ICC T20 Cricketer of the Year and Men’s T20 Player of the Year
India vs Pakistan – High-Stakes Clash on February 23
As part of Champions Trophy 2025, cricket fans are eagerly awaiting the highly anticipated India vs Pakistan match, set to take place on February 23.
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