The ICC Board is set to hold an urgent meeting next week, on November 26, to address the future of the 2025 Champions Trophy. This meeting will primarily focus on the potential implementation of a hybrid model for the tournament, which would involve matches being held in both Pakistan, the confirmed host, and a yet-to-be-determined overseas venue.
While multiple sources close to the discussions have confirmed the meeting, an ICC spokesperson noted that there has been no official communication about it. It’s currently unclear which member boards have been informed.
According to a PCB official, they have not yet received details regarding the meeting. The ICC Board consists of representatives from 12 Full Member nations, along with three representatives from Associate nations, as well as an independent director, the ICC chairman, and the CEO.
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This emergency meeting was prompted by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) notifying ICC that the Indian government has denied permission for the national team, led by Rohit Sharma, to travel to Pakistan. This decision came just two weeks ago and poses a significant hurdle for the PCB, which was awarded hosting rights for the tournament three years prior.
The PCB has asserted its commitment to host all event matches in Pakistan, across venues in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi. With the tournament scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9, the absence of an official match schedule from the ICC raises concerns.
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PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed optimism regarding the Champions Trophy’s successful hosting in Pakistan, indicating a willingness to communicate with the BCCI to resolve the ongoing deadlock. He added that the PCB is awaiting an official response from the ICC about the reasons behind India’s travel restrictions.
This situation mirrors the arrangements made for the 2023 Asia Cup, which was co-hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka after the Indian team’s travel was similarly restricted. As the ICC navigates these complex issues, the viability of the Champions Trophy remains an urgent matter for cricket fans and stakeholders alike.