The International Cricket Council (ICC) will hold a virtual meeting with top cricketing officials. The goal is to finalize the host details for the Champions Trophy 2025. The tournament is scheduled for February 2025, but venue decisions remain pending.
India Refuses to Play in Pakistan
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has refused to send its team to Pakistan. This decision stems from ongoing political tensions. To address the issue, a “Hybrid Model” was proposed. Under this plan, India would play all its matches, including knockouts, at a neutral venue like the UAE. However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has rejected this idea.
Three Solutions Under Consideration
The ICC is exploring three possible solutions to resolve the standoff:
- Hybrid Model: India plays its matches in a neutral venue, while Pakistan hosts the rest. This model mirrors the arrangement used for the 2023 Asia Cup.
- Neutral Venue: The entire tournament moves to a neutral country, such as the UAE or South Africa. This would exclude Pakistan as a host, upsetting the PCB.
- India Skips the Tournament: The Champions Trophy remains in Pakistan. However, India would not participate due to government restrictions.
PCB Rejects Hybrid Model
The PCB has strongly opposed the Hybrid Model. This plan allows Pakistan to host the tournament but moves India’s games to a neutral venue. If India reaches the knockouts, several key matches would occur outside Pakistan. The PCB believes this approach undermines its hosting rights and could hurt revenues.
ICC Faces Tough Decisions
The ICC must act quickly to find a solution. Transitioning to a neutral venue may alienate Pakistan. Insisting on Pakistan as the host could risk India’s participation. The upcoming meeting will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the Champions Trophy 2025.