Photo Credit: Instagram Photo of @icctrophytour
With the Champions Trophy 2025 schedule yet to be announced, uncertainty surrounds the tournament’s format. Although originally planned as an ODI event, speculation suggests a shift to the T20 format might occur, with less than 74 days remaining until the start. Star Sports, the official broadcaster for ICC events in India, has already aired the tournament’s commercial, which lists the dates as February 19 to March 9.
The ICC faces growing criticism for failing to meet contractual obligations, a situation highlighted in a report by Cricbuzz. The delayed announcements, now past the critical 90-day mark, have left broadcasters struggling to promote the much-anticipated event effectively.
As a deadlock persists between the ICC, BCCI, and PCB, discussions about altering the tournament’s format have intensified. Stakeholders, frustrated by delays, are reportedly considering a move from the traditional ODI structure to the more popular and marketable T20 format. With T20 cricket overshadowing ODIs in global appeal, such a change could enhance viewership and commercial success.
The uncertainty is compounded by broader disputes between the ICC, BCCI, and PCB. While the Champions Trophy is expected to follow a hybrid model, with 10 matches in Pakistan and five in the UAE or Sri Lanka, disagreements over future ICC tournaments have stalled progress.
Pakistan demands that the hybrid model also apply to ICC events hosted in India over the next three years—a stance firmly opposed by the BCCI. Broadcasters, aligned with the BCCI, argue that India’s matches generate higher revenues when held domestically, making Pakistan’s demand financially untenable.
The PCB faces a difficult situation, unable to retreat from its position without compensatory measures that satisfy its stakeholders. Efforts to resolve the impasse, such as proposing a tri-series involving India, have been rejected by both the ICC and BCCI.
Teams for the Champions Trophy 2025:
- Pakistan (Host)
- India
- Australia
- England
- New Zealand
- South Africa
- Afghanistan
- Bangladesh
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
