Srinagar: The uncertainty over Champions Trophy 2025 is refusing to die down as neither BCCI and PCB is backing down and now the reports claim that ICC will by announcing schdule this week.
IANS report quoting sources claimed that the ICC is likely to finalize and announce the schedule by the end of this week, following ongoing discussions with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to address India’s concerns.
India, one of the eight participating nations, have refused to travel to Pakistan for the tournament, citing government restrictions. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has conveyed its position to the ICC, leaving the PCB seeking an explanation for India’s stance.
In response, the PCB is reportedly considering escalating the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) if a resolution is not reached.
The PCB remains firm on its position to host the event in Pakistan in its entirety, resisting any compromise formula similar to those seen during the 2023 Asia Cup and ODI World Cup.
PCB Chairmain Mohsin Naqvi on Monday said that PCB isnt going to agree on hybrid model.
“If India has any concerns about sending their team to Pakistan they must talk to us and we will remove them. I don’t think there is any reason for India not to come to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy,” Naqvi told reporters.
“Pakistan’s pride and respect is our priority. Champions Trophy will take place in our country only, we will not accept Hybrid Model. If India has any issues, they can come to us and we will sort them out”, Naqvi said while addressing the media outside Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
During the 2023 Asia Cup, the PCB reluctantly agreed to a hybrid model, with India’s matches being held in Sri Lanka. Later, during the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, Pakistan participated despite strong reservations from their government. These instances highlight the political and logistical complexities that could once again come into play.
Amidst the uncertainty, the ICC has initiated the Trophy Tour for Champions Trophy 2025 to build excitement for the tournament. The tour began on Saturday in Islamabad, Pakistan’s capital, where the iconic silverware was displayed at several landmarks, including Daman-e-Koh, Faisal Mosque, and the Pakistan Monument. The launch event featured cricket legend Shoaib Akhtar, who accompanied the trophy to its stops in the city.