The International Cricket Council (ICC) convened a pivotal meeting on Friday to determine the fate of the 2025 Champions Trophy, originally slated to be hosted by Pakistan. However, the session was adjourned after approximately 15 minutes without reaching a definitive resolution, and discussions are set to resume on Saturday.
The impasse stems from India’s firm decision not to travel to Pakistan for the tournament, citing security concerns and the absence of governmental approval. Conversely, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), under Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, remains resolute in hosting the entire event within Pakistan, rejecting proposals for a hybrid model that would involve matches being played in a second country.
During Friday’s brief meeting, attended by officials from both the PCB and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the ICC urged all parties to collaborate on finding a mutually acceptable solution within the next 24 to 48 hours. The urgency is underscored by the tournament’s scheduled dates from February 19 to March 9, 2025, with the ICC yet to release an official schedule.
Historically, cricketing ties between India and Pakistan have been strained due to political tensions. India last toured Pakistan in 2008 for the Asia Cup, and the two nations have not engaged in a bilateral series since 2012-13. Their encounters have been limited to ICC tournaments and Asia Cups, often held at neutral venues.
Also read: ICC to Decide: PCB Rejects Hybrid Plan, BCCI Stands Firm
As the cricketing world awaits a resolution, the ICC’s forthcoming decisions will be pivotal in shaping the future of the Champions Trophy and the broader dynamics of international cricket relations in the region.
