Photo Credit: Instagram Photo of @icctrophytour
The ICC Champions Trophy faces uncertainty after the BCCI refused to send the Indian cricket team to Pakistan, citing the Indian government’s denial of travel approval. The BCCI has pushed for a hybrid model, as it did for the Asia Cup 2022, where India’s matches were played in Sri Lanka. Although the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) accepted the hybrid format for the Asia Cup, they are unwilling to do so for the Champions Trophy.
The PCB has sought an official response from the ICC, emphasizing that all other teams have agreed to play in Pakistan. Reports suggest the PCB may consider withdrawing from the tournament if the ICC approves the hybrid model, which would lead to significant financial losses for the PCB.
Pulling out would also impact the ICC and BCCI, given the immense revenue generated from India-Pakistan matches. If the tournament proceeds without India, broadcasters and sponsors could face substantial setbacks.
Pakistan media outlets have accused the BCCI of trying to derail the tournament by offering financial incentives to other cricket boards. According to Cricket Pakistan, the BCCI has proposed sharing ICC revenues and offering millions of dollars, alongside the promise of additional bilateral matches with India, to gain support for relocating the tournament or adopting the hybrid model.
The ICC is under pressure, as the November 19 deadline for announcing the schedule looms. Missing this deadline could breach commitments with commercial broadcasters, raising tensions between the ICC and BCCI. Reports claim that while the BCCI publicly cites security concerns, they are privately persuading boards to favor alternatives that exclude Pakistan as the sole host.
The PCB has reiterated that all matches must take place in Pakistan and has suggested replacing India with a higher-ranked team if needed. They have ruled out relocation and reminded stakeholders that India initially supported Pakistan’s hosting bid in 2021 under former PCB Chairman Rameez Raja. The sudden shift in the BCCI’s stance has sparked questions about its motives.
The ICC continues to hold discussions with all member boards, emphasizing that any decision on the Champions Trophy’s fate will be made collectively and not solely influenced by the BCCI.
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
