Islamabad, Nov 22: The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, scheduled for February in Pakistan, is at a crossroads as disagreements between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), and International Cricket Council (ICC) threaten its fate. The tournament’s schedule remains unsettled, with Pakistan opposing a hybrid venue model if India refuses to play in the country.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi firmly declared, “We will not compromise on hosting rights. If India refuses to play in Pakistan, we are ready to withdraw.” This stance underscores Pakistan’s frustration over perceived inequities and reflects its government’s firm opposition to unequal arrangements.
While the BCCI secretary Jay Shah has held discussions in Dubai, no formal objection to Pakistan’s hosting has been filed. The ICC, relying on verbal updates from Shah, faces mounting broadcaster pressure. A Pakistan-India match, a cornerstone for viewership and revenue, is crucial, with broadcasters warning of financial fallout if the marquee clash doesn’t occur.
Possible Outcomes and Next Steps
If India opts out, Sri Lanka might replace them as the ninth-ranked team under ICC rules. However, prioritizing India’s participation over Pakistan’s hosting rights risks alienating the PCB. An emergency ICC board meeting could soon be convened to decide the tournament’s future.
As the standoff persists, the tournament remains overshadowed by political tensions, leaving cricket fans awaiting the ICC’s decisive action.
