BCCI vs PCB: ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Faces Potential Venue Shift

Following the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)‘s decision to refuse to travel to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) finds itself in a precarious position. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi remains determined to host the entire tournament in Pakistan. However, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has now presented a challenge, potentially forcing the PCB to reconsider its stance.

The hybrid model was previously used for the Asia Cup 2023, in which India played all its matches in Sri Lanka while the rest of the tournament took place in Pakistan. This model, though controversial, allowed the tournament to proceed despite political tensions between the two countries.

Sources suggest that the ICC has urged the PCB to adopt a hybrid model for the tournament, with India’s matches being played in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). If PCB rejects this proposal, the ICC is reportedly prepared to relocate the entire event to South Africa.

Despite earlier reports of discussions around the hybrid model, Naqvi denied such conversations. “No one has discussed a hybrid model with us so far, and we are not willing to talk about it,” Naqvi stated during a press conference at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. He added, “We have shown good gestures over the past years but can’t keep doing that indefinitely. Any decision will be taken after consulting the government.”

Amid the ongoing uncertainty, former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has suggested that if the hybrid model is implemented, the ICC should award Pakistan two points for any matches played in the UAE, given that the team would be at a disadvantage when playing away from home. Ali compared this scenario to the 1996 World Cup, where West Indies and Australia refused to play in Sri Lanka due to security concerns, which led to them being awarded points.

Meanwhile, the ICC has yet to announce the official schedule for the Champions Trophy, which is typically disclosed 100 days before the event. The delay has added to the uncertainty surrounding the tournament’s location and format.

With BCCI opting not to travel to Pakistan and PCB holding firm on its desire to host the tournament fully, the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 remains in flux. If the hybrid model is adopted, it could be the second time in recent years that multi-team tournaments have been played in this format, with the Asia Cup 2023 being a precedent.

As the situation develops, the ICC must work with both boards to find a solution that ensures the tournament proceeds smoothly, whether in Pakistan or a neutral venue.

Image Credits: MyKhel

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