The cricketing world is holding its breath as the fate of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy will be decided this Friday. The much-anticipated virtual ICC Board meeting is expected to address a deadlock that has thrown the tournament’s future into uncertainty. Will Pakistan retain hosting rights, or will the event be moved elsewhere?
Pakistan’s Hosting Dreams on the Line
For Pakistan, this isn’t just about cricket. The Champions Trophy represents a historic moment—a return to hosting an ICC event after years of absence. The PCB has poured over 13 billion PKR into upgrading stadiums in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi, gearing up for the grand occasion.
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But trouble started brewing when India refused to send its team, citing a lack of government clearance. Since then, the PCB has faced mounting pressure to accept a hybrid model, where some matches would be played outside Pakistan.
ICC Board Meeting: What’s at Stake?
Friday’s ICC Board meeting, featuring representatives from 17 member nations, will likely discuss two key scenarios:
- Hybrid Model Proposal: If Pakistan agrees, the tournament will be co-hosted, with some matches likely held in neutral venues.
- Voting for Relocation: If Pakistan declines, a vote may decide to strip the country of hosting rights altogether.
Reports suggest that financial incentives could be offered to Pakistan as a sweetener. However, PCB sources have firmly rejected this idea, maintaining that hosting the entire event in Pakistan is non-negotiable.
Read More: Champions Trophy: PCB Stands Firm, Rejects Indian Offer For Hybrid Model
India’s Influence and Financial Clout
India’s financial influence in cricket governance adds another layer of complexity. With Jay Shah set to take over ICC’s leadership next month, India’s position is expected to grow even stronger. Broadcasters, who see India’s participation as a key revenue driver, are unlikely to support a PCB-led boycott or a “minus-India” tournament.
This financial leverage puts Pakistan in a tough spot. While the PCB is preparing for potential legal action and has already consulted lawyers in London, the road ahead is far from easy.
If the ICC board votes to relocate the Champions Trophy, Pakistan faces significant financial and reputational losses. But PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and his team have made it clear—they won’t back down without a fight.
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