The International Cricket Council (ICC) hold a virtual meeting today to discuss the future of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, amid uncertainties caused by India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan.
Sources informed that various scenarios are being considered, including hosting the tournament in Pakistan without India. However, this option seems improbable due to India’s immense commercial significance.
In rare cases, sports events have proceeded without certain teams, such as the 1980 Moscow Olympics, which saw boycotts by multiple nations. However, the ICC may adopt a different approach. One proposed solution involves a hybrid model, where most matches would take place in Pakistan while India’s games are hosted at a neutral venue, likely the UAE.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has rejected the hybrid model but, according to ICC insiders, it remains under consideration. If such a plan is proposed, the PCB is expected to demand that all Pakistan matches, including the Pakistan-India fixture, be held in Pakistan.
ICC sources highlighted that a tournament without a Pakistan-India match would lack appeal, making such a scenario unlikely. Other possibilities include relocating the tournament to a neutral venue or postponing it. Additionally, there is speculation that the ICC might propose stripping Pakistan of hosting rights entirely, a move the PCB is prepared to strongly oppose.
The PCB has requested the ICC to present detailed, actionable proposals during Friday’s meeting and has also urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to submit a formal explanation, with evidence, for its refusal to tour.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, after visiting Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on Wednesday, reaffirmed the board’s commitment to prioritizing Pakistan’s interests. He dismissed the idea of compromising on hosting rights for financial compensation and emphasized the importance of maintaining Pakistan’s position.
