The International Cricket Council (ICC) faces limited options after receiving a letter from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in response to India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy.
According to Geo Super, the PCB has requested specific clarifications from the ICC. The PCB has asked when the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) informed the ICC that India would not participate in the Champions Trophy if it’s held in Pakistan. They have also inquired whether the BCCI formally communicated this decision in writing and, if so, requested a copy of the correspondence, as well as any reasons provided by the BCCI for their stance.
The PCB also seeks to know how the ICC has responded to the BCCI’s decision. Sources suggest that, depending on the ICC’s answers, the PCB may seek legal guidance and consult with the government to determine its next steps. However, if the ICC accepts India’s refusal, the PCB has reportedly stated it will not play any matches against India during the Champions Trophy.
Contrary to reports in the Indian media suggesting a possible relocation of the Champions Trophy from Pakistan, sources confirmed that there has been no such development, and the ICC has not approached other countries, such as South Africa, to host the tournament.
An additional source indicated that relocating the Champions Trophy would be challenging with fewer than 100 days left until the event. They emphasized that such a move would require ICC board approval and a valid reason for relocation, which would be difficult given that other teams have been regularly visiting Pakistan for bilateral series.
A source noted, “The ICC is in a challenging position. With India unwilling to travel and Pakistan refusing to play India if that decision stands, the ICC is left in a difficult position.” The source highlighted that Pakistan’s involvement is critical for revenue, and the ICC understands the value Pakistan brings to cricket.
The ICC has no precedent for shifting a tournament due to one team’s travel issues. For instance, during the 2009 T20 World Cup, when the UK government denied visas to Zimbabwe, the ICC opted for Zimbabwe’s withdrawal and brought in Scotland, rather than relocating the event. This precedent suggests that relocating the Champions Trophy may not be feasible for the ICC without substantial grounds
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
