ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Key Meeting Postponed as India-Pakistan Hosting Dispute Continues
The highly anticipated ICC meeting to discuss the hosting of the 2025 Champions Trophy has been postponed. The decision regarding the venue for this prestigious tournament remains uncertain, as a conflict continues between the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
BCCI has made it clear that the Indian cricket team will not travel to Pakistan for the tournament, citing security concerns and political tensions. On the other hand, the PCB has rejected the proposed ‘hybrid model’ for hosting, which would involve matches being played in both Pakistan and neutral locations.
A Crucial Meeting on November 30
The rescheduled meeting is now set to take place on November 30, 2024, where representatives from 12 ICC full-member countries, three associate countries, and other key officials are expected to attend. The meeting is anticipated to address the ongoing disagreements and seek a resolution regarding the venue for the 2025 Champions Trophy.
A PTI report mentioned that the previous emergency meeting failed to reach a consensus on the tournament’s schedule. Pakistan, once again, rejected the ‘hybrid model’ of hosting, further complicating the decision-making process.
PCB’s Stance on the Hybrid Model
During Friday’s brief meeting, PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi reiterated his stance, asserting that Pakistan is not willing to accept a hybrid model for hosting the Champions Trophy. Despite the Indian government’s refusal to allow its team to tour Pakistan, Naqvi emphasized that PCB would not compromise on this issue.
A senior ICC administrator suggested that all parties are still working toward finding a “positive solution” for the tournament, with further discussions likely in the coming days.
A Vote on Hosting May Be Imminent
BCCI Secretary Jay Shah, who participated in the online meeting, is set to assume the role of ICC President on December 1. It is believed that the ICC aims to resolve the hosting issue before Shah takes office. Voting may be conducted among the ICC board members, with the majority decision to determine the outcome.
The Champions Trophy is expected to take place from February 19 to March 9, 2025, with a 19-day window allocated for the tournament. As the standoff continues, the cricketing world eagerly awaits a resolution on where this prestigious event will be held.
