Broadcasters have urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to release the schedule for the 2025 Champions Trophy as soon as possible, according to ARY News.
The schedule, which was initially set to be released earlier this week, has been delayed following the Indian government’s refusal to allow its team to travel to Pakistan for the event.
The broadcasting rights for the tournament, awarded to broadcasters until 2027 for a record $3 billion, depend heavily on the popularity of key matchups, particularly between Pakistan and India, which consistently generate the highest viewership.
Pakistan-India games are a significant revenue source for broadcasters, as these matches attract large audiences and drive substantial advertising revenue.
The early release of the schedule would assist broadcasters in maximizing promotional and commercial opportunities for these high-profile matches.
On November 9, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) informed the ICC that India would not be sending its team to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy. The BCCI stated that the Indian government had advised against the team’s participation.
India has not visited Pakistan since the 2008 Asia Cup due to ongoing political tensions between the two countries. Pakistan, however, has traveled to India four times in the past 16 years, most recently for the ICC Men’s World Cup 2023.
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff