The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is still awaiting formal communication from the International Cricket Council (ICC) regarding the scheduling of the opening ceremony for the forthcoming Champions Trophy in Pakistan. Nevertheless, the board remains optimistic that Indian captain Rohit Sharma will attend the traditional captains' photo shoot and the pre-event press conference.

As reported by PTI, the opening ceremony is anticipated to take place on either February 16 or 17, although the ICC has yet to confirm these dates. The PCB is hopeful for Rohit's participation in the event.

Furthermore, the report indicated that the PCB has obtained all necessary clearances from the government to swiftly issue visas to all visiting captains, as well as players and team officials attending pre-tournament activities.

"This certainly includes Rohit, along with any other player or official from the Indian team or board," he stated.

Another source informed PTI that the PCB has communicated to the ICC that the opening ceremony will indeed occur in Pakistan. It was also noted that three Indian nationals, part of the ICC delegation that visited Pakistan, were granted visas after their names were submitted to the PCB by the governing body.

"This aligns with standard protocols, and given that the opening match is scheduled for the 19th, the opening ceremony is expected to be held on either the 16th or 17th," the source added.

India to play their Champions Trophy matches in Dubai

The Champions Trophy tournament, featuring eight teams, is set to commence on February 19 in Karachi, Pakistan. However, due to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) not receiving approval from the Indian government for travel to Pakistan amid ongoing political tensions, India will conduct all its matches in Dubai. Consequently, India's advancement in the tournament will determine the location for the knockout rounds.

India and the reigning champions, Pakistan, are placed in Group A alongside Bangladesh and New Zealand. Group B includes Afghanistan, England, Australia, and South Africa.

Read Also: BCCI Excludes KL Rahul and Sanju Samson from Champions Trophy Consideration

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