The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has formally requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) to provide an explanation for India’s refusal to participate in the Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to be held in Pakistan. The PCB’s request comes in response to the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) decision to not send its team to Pakistan, citing ongoing security concerns
Scheduled from February 19 to March 9, 2025, the Champions Trophy is set to be the first global ICC event hosted in Pakistan since the 1996 co-hosted ODI World Cup. The PCB has been adamant about holding the event in Pakistan, despite persistent security concerns. However, the BCCI has made it clear that India will not travel to Pakistan for the tournament.
The ICC has proposed a hybrid model, where India would play its matches at neutral venues like the UAE, instead of Pakistan. However, the PCB has firmly rejected this compromise, insisting that the tournament should be held in its entirety in Pakistan. The PCB’s stance is that without India’s participation, the tournament’s viewership and financial success could be significantly impacted.
The PCB has also consulted with the Pakistan government on the issue and is looking to present a firm stance on the matter. The financial ramifications of the situation are substantial, with Pakistan potentially facing massive losses if the tournament is postponed or relocated. The PCB has invested heavily in upgrading venues across Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Lahore in preparation for the Champions Trophy