The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has formally submitted its proposals to the International Cricket Council (ICC) to address the ongoing dispute with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. However, the BCCI has yet to finalize its stance, leaving the tournament’s fate uncertain.
The disagreement centers on India’s refusal to send its team to Pakistan for the event, citing unspecified reasons. While the PCB has now expressed its willingness to accept a hybrid model, a departure from its earlier rejection of the idea the BCCI is still deliberating over its response.
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Under the proposed hybrid model, Pakistan and India would avoid hosting each other’s matches for ICC events, with games held at neutral venues. However, concerns remain, particularly regarding BCCI’s reluctance to move tournament finals to neutral grounds if Pakistan qualifies. The PCB, for its part, has shown readiness to host the final at a neutral venue if India qualifies for the 2025 Champions Trophy.
Another point of contention involves the role of ICC President Jay Shah, also the BCCI Secretary and son of India’s Home Minister Amit Shah, a key member of the ruling BJP. Shah has refrained from visiting Pakistan in the past due to political tensions, raising questions about his potential participation in the event, especially if Pakistan reaches the final and India does not.
The ICC has yet to schedule its Executive Board meeting to resolve the matter, following postponements due to UAE national holidays. A final decision is anticipated by the end of the week, with the tournament’s February 19 start date fast approaching.
Logistical arrangements, including the tournament schedule, are on hold, as the ICC missed its initial November 20 deadline for the official announcement. The delay underscores the urgency of reaching a resolution to ensure smooth preparations for the event.
