The uncertainty surrounding the schedule for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is expected to continue, with a delay in the announcement of the much-anticipated event. Sources suggest that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is holding firm in its opposition to the proposed hybrid model for the tournament, making it unlikely that the schedule will be released within the next 24 hours.
The delay follows rising tensions between the PCB and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), with the BCCI reportedly refusing to travel to Pakistan for the event. The ICC has officially requested a written explanation from the BCCI following the PCB’s request for a formal response to India’s refusal.
In addition to the PCB’s stance, broadcasters and commercial partners have expressed concerns over the potential absence of a Pakistan-India match, which typically attracts massive viewership and generates substantial revenue. These concerns have further complicated matters, with warnings of possible legal action if the match is excluded from the tournament.
Sources indicate that the schedule could be confirmed in the coming days if stakeholders are willing to find a compromise. The ICC is working toward a solution before BCCI Secretary Jay Shah assumes the role of ICC Chairman on December 1.
In recent years, the ICC has ensured that India and Pakistan meet at least once in each major event, as their matchups are crucial for generating significant revenue. The India-Pakistan game during the 2023 World Cup saw record-breaking viewership, with 173 million TV viewers in India and 225 million digital viewers.
The ICC, which secured $3.2 billion from broadcast rights for the 2024-2027 cycle, is reliant on high-profile matches like Pakistan vs. India to boost its revenue. It’s important to note that India has not played an international match in Pakistan since 2008, and while the BCCI refused to send a team for the 2023 Asia Cup in Pakistan, Pakistan did visit India for the 2023 World Cup.
