Tensions are mounting between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over Pakistan’s hosting rights for the ICC Champions Trophy next year. India has informed the International Cricket Council (ICC) that due to security concerns, they will not be sending their team to Pakistan for the event.
In response, the PCB has reportedly threatened to withdraw from the tournament entirely in protest, marking a significant stand against India’s refusal. While the discussions remain in the early stages, reports suggest that the ICC is already considering contingency plans, with South Africa being explored as an alternative host nation if an agreement cannot be reached.
The ICC has proposed a hybrid model to the PCB, where India’s matches would be played in the UAE, with the final potentially held in Dubai, rather than in Pakistan. However, the PCB is hesitant to accept this approach, as it could undermine Pakistan’s status as the primary host.
ALSO READ: Sunil Gavaskar Questions India’s Decision To Cancel Warm-Up Game Before Australia Series
According to sources, the BCCI has only agreed to the hybrid model on the condition that the final takes place in Dubai rather than Pakistan. This proposal appears to be the ICC’s attempt to satisfy both parties. To further incentivize the PCB, the ICC has reportedly offered the board full hosting fees and the opportunity to host most of the tournament’s matches if they accept the hybrid model.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) risks losing the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as ICC considers shifting the event to South Africa
Due to security concerns, India has refused to play in Pakistan, leading to a proposed “Hybrid Model” with India’s matches in UAE and final in Dubai.… pic.twitter.com/PMuhcvyHEV
— Nabila Jamal (@nabilajamal_) November 12, 2024
However, the PCB is reluctant to adopt another hybrid approach, having already navigated such a setup in the Asia Cup earlier this year. A report from Sports Tak claims that the ICC warned the PCB that, if necessary, the entire Champions Trophy could be relocated to South Africa should the PCB refuse the proposed model.
Currently, the PCB is discussing its options with the Pakistani government to determine the next steps. A PCB representative told PTI, “There is no talk about a Hybrid Model system as of now.”
ALSO READ: AB de Villiers opens up on James Anderson registering for IPL 2025 auction
They added that an email, prepared with legal guidance, would soon be sent to the ICC, seeking clarity on India’s stance and the tournament’s logistics. For now, the PCB is weighing its options, though consultations with government officials may ultimately shape the board’s final decision on how to proceed.
