But after only five days of the Champions Trophy tournament, the host and defending champion has bowed out. For years the country was off-limits because of security fears. but in recent years top Test nations made successful visits to Pakistan and returned home impressed with the country’s ability to pull off matches smoothly and safely. But one country that steadfastly has refused to cross the border they share is India. Prior to the Champions Trophy competition, India assured the governing body of the game — the International Cricket Council — that it would compete. But closer to the time, India made an about turn, leaving egg on the face of the ICC by demanding that its matches be played outside of Pakistan. Pakistan originally had made it clear it wouldn’t bow down to India’s request but, in the end, India got its way. The host nation roped in Dubai for matches involving India and, if India does reach the final, the encounter also will take place in the desert city.