Photo Credit: Instagram Photo of @icctrophytour
A three-way standoff has emerged between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), and the International Cricket Council (ICC) regarding the Champions Trophy 2025.
Pakistan is the official host of the tournament, and preparations are underway despite ongoing security concerns. India’s participation in Pakistan was always in doubt, but it is the ICC’s next steps that remain uncertain.
The BCCI officially informed the ICC of its reluctance to play in Pakistan, prompting the ICC to quickly notify the PCB. The ICC suggested a hybrid model for the tournament, but the PCB immediately rejected it.
With only three months left until the tournament, there has been no clear statement from the ICC. The Pakistan government has requested a written explanation from the BCCI outlining its reasons for not traveling to Pakistan.
If India withdraws from the Champions Trophy, it would lead to significant financial consequences for both the ICC and the PCB. India is a major draw in any ICC event, and the global cricket body may not want to risk hosting such a major tournament without the participation of the Indian team. However, if both India and Pakistan hold firm and the ICC proceeds with the Champions Trophy, Sri Lanka stands to benefit.
The format of the Champions Trophy includes only the top eight teams. Sri Lanka, who finished ninth in the ODI rankings following the World Cup in India in 2023, would gain direct entry if India pulls out. As the champions of the 2002 edition, Sri Lanka would replace India if the latter chooses not to participate in the tournament.
The ICC is in a challenging position following India’s refusal and Pakistan’s firm stance. Although an official tournament schedule was expected to be released on November 11, 2024, it has yet to be announced.
The BCCI had reportedly suggested that India’s matches be played in the UAE, but the PCB has strongly opposed this. Reports have also surfaced that South Africa and India are interested in hosting the Champions Trophy, though no official announcements have been made.
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
