Explained: Why don’t Sri Lanka and West Indies play in the 2025 champion trophy?

As ICC Champions Trophy 2025 They take place, the cricket enthusiasts are buzzing with excitement about the return of the tournament after an eight -year hiatus. However, notable absences from this prestigious event are former champions Sri Lanka and West Indies. Their absence asked questions about the qualification process and the current state of crisis in these countries.
Qualification Criteria for Champion Trophy 2025
The Champions Trophy 2025 contains eight teams: Pakistan (hosts), India, Bangladesh, New Zealand, Afghanistan, Australia, England and South Africa. The qualification for this tournament was based on the performance of teams in the ICC ICC in the 2023 World Cup. The top seven teams from that tournament, excluding the host Pakistan, secured their seats in the champion trophy. Unfortunately, both Sri Lanka and West Indies failed to fulfill this criterion. It was the same case for the Netherlands, Zimbabwe and Ireland – other missing members.
Which team will raise the champion trophy this year?#cricket #Championstrophy2025 #Odi pic.twitter.com/chn9lhgcs
– Crickettimes.com 19. February 2025
Also read: The winning percentage of all teams in the history of the trophy champion
Non -existence of Sri Lanka and West India: Impact on Global Cricket
The absence of Sri Lanka and West India from the champion trophy is significant not only for these teams, but also for the global cricket. Both countries have immensely contributed to the history of sports and have passionate fans’ bases. Their absence from such a high tournament diminishes its competitive advantage and deprives the fans to witness some of the most exciting crislet players.
Looking in advance, both Sri Lanka and West Indies have to focus on the renovation of their teams. For Sri Lanka, investing in young people’s development and improving domestic competitions could give positive results in the long run. West Indies must resolve administrative challenges, at the same time encouraging players to prioritize national duties with lucrative T20 contracts.
While new teams love each other Afghanistan They give their mark on the international stage, traditional power plants must be adapted to remain relevant. While the fans enjoy this year’s tournament with eight competitive teams, it will undoubtedly look forward to returning to Sri Lanka and West Indies to prominent international events.