Ishan Kishan’s Blistering Century Propels Jharkhand to Victory
December 23, 2024
No Comments
Read More »
The hosting of 2025 ICC Champions Trophy has been a significant point of discussion with ongoing deliberations and shift in plans. Here is the best update.
Pakistan was officially announced as the host for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, scheduled to be held from February 19 to March 9, 2025. However, there has been considerable uncertainty due to India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan for the tournament, citing security concerns. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has communicated this stance officially to the international Cricket Council (ICC) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
In response to India’s refusal, several alternatives have been explored. One of the primary options discussed is a hybrid hosting model, similar to the one used for the 2023 Asia Cup. Here Pakistan would host most of the matches, while India’s games would be played at neutral venues like Dubai or South Africa. However, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has clearly stated that Pakistan will not agree to this model, opting to host the entire tournament within Pakistan.
Due to the impasse, there have been discussions about relocating the tournament entirely to another country. Countries like the United Arab Emirates, Sri Lanka, and South Africa have been considered as potential alternative hosts. The ICC has been exploring these options to ensure the tournament can proceed without issues, especially considering the financial and logistical implications for PCB if the event is moved.
As of the latest updates, the ICC is set to announce the schedule for the Champions Trophy, with ongoing negotiations about the hosting scenario. There was an emergency meeting of the ICC’s executive board, which couldn’t reach a consensus, and the matter was adjourned to be discussed further. The PCB has been firm on hosting the tournament entirely in Pakistan, with assurances of security and modern facilities.
Additionally, there was controversy regarding the proposed trophy tour which included stops in disputed regions like Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK). The BCCI lodged a complaint with the ICC, leading to a revision of the tour’s itinerary.
If Pakistan loses the hosting rights, it could face significant financial losses, estimated around $65 million, due to the costs of preparation and loss of hosting revenue.
The situation remains fluid, with the ICC and involved cricket boards working towards a resolution that satisfies all parties, particularly in light of the geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan. The final decision on the hosting of the Champions Trophy 2025 will likely involve further negotiations or might lead to a last-minute change in venue if a consensus cannot be reached.