Champions Trophy 2025: PCB leaves it up to ICC to convince BCCI to come to Pakistan

July 24, 2024

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Champions Trophy 2025: PCB leaves it up to ICC to convince BCCI to come to Pakistan

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has formally submitted all necessary documents to the International Cricket Council (ICC) regarding the hosting of the Champions Trophy, scheduled for the first quarter of next year. This includes a draft schedule and budget, with a proposed venue of Lahore for all of India’s matches, including a potential semi-final and the final.

“The PCB now has done what was required of it as hosts of the Champions Trophy. It has submitted the draft schedule and format for the event and also submitted budget for the event,” a PCB insider said.

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Despite completing its part, the PCB acknowledges that the tournament’s success hinges on the participation of India. “The PCB for its part has given in writing to the ICC about the tax modalities, venue selections and clearance from its government for Indian team to be hosted in Pakistan for the mega event,” another source confirmed.

Historically, the BCCI has maintained that the decision to play cricket in Pakistan is a government matter. This stance was evident during the 2023 ODI Asia Cup, where India played its games in Sri Lanka based on a ‘Hybrid Model.’

The ICC has included supplementary expenses in its tournament budget to address potential scenarios where the Indian team might have to play matches outside Pakistan. However, the final decision rests with the BCCI.

PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi’s interactions with BCCI secretary Jay Shah at recent ICC meetings were described as cordial, though no formal discussions regarding the Champions Trophy took place.

“The PCB has now relegated the responsibility of finalizing and announcing the tournament schedule to the ICC,” a PCB source stated.

The PCB’s draft schedule includes the high-stakes India vs Pakistan match on March 1. While the board has fulfilled its obligations, the ICC now holds the key to finalizing the event logistics and securing India’s participation.

Cricket fans worldwide eagerly await clarity on this matter, as the India vs Pakistan rivalry is one of the most watched events in sports.