The future of the 2025 Champions Trophy will be decided on Friday, as the ICC convenes a board meeting to address the matter.
Pakistan faces pressure to accept a proposed hybrid model for the tournament, which would involve matches being hosted in multiple countries. If Pakistan refuses, the ICC may hold a vote to strip the country of its hosting rights. Some reports suggest that the ICC could offer financial incentives to persuade Pakistan to change its position, but PCB sources have firmly rejected any proposal involving co-hosting or additional monetary compensation. Pakistan insists on hosting the entire event within its borders.
The Champions Trophy, scheduled for early 2025, marks Pakistan’s first time hosting an ICC event in years. However, India has created obstacles, including recently refusing to send its team due to a lack of government clearance. This delay prevented Pakistan from finalizing the tournament schedule.
Pressure has been mounting on Pakistan to accept the hybrid model, which the ICC is pushing. If the dispute remains unresolved, the issue will be put to a vote at the ICC Board meeting on Friday. If Pakistan refuses to accept the proposal, the ICC could relocate the event, and Pakistan might boycott the tournament or refuse to play against India. However, broadcasters may oppose such a move due to financial considerations.
India’s significant financial influence within the ICC, which will strengthen further when Jay Shah assumes leadership next month, plays a crucial role in the ongoing discussions. Meanwhile, Pakistan is preparing for potential legal action and has already consulted lawyers in London.
The PCB has already invested over 13 billion PKR in upgrading stadiums in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi in preparation for the event. If the tournament is relocated, the PCB risks substantial financial losses, though ICC may offer compensation. However, the PCB remains firm on not accepting any financial settlement or compromise on its hosting rights.
The 17-member ICC board, which includes key figures such as Chairman Greg Barclay, Jay Shah from India, and representatives from various other cricketing nations, will gather for the meeting to make a final decision.
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