Indian media has reported that the International Cricket Council (ICC) has called an emergency meeting to address issues surrounding the upcoming Champions Trophy.
According to Indian sources, the virtual meeting is scheduled for November 26, with representatives from both the Indian and Pakistan cricket boards expected to attend. All ICC board members will reportedly participate, as the meeting aims to determine the future of the tournament.
Key topics to be discussed include India's refusal to tour Pakistan, the proposed hybrid model, tournament scheduling, format, group stage matches, and the potential Pakistan-India clash. Discussions may also extend to the hosting of the semifinals and final if the hybrid model is adopted.
The hybrid model, proposed by the ICC, would see matches involving India played at neutral venues, such as the UAE, while Pakistan hosts the remaining games. However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has remained steadfast in rejecting the hybrid format.
Despite the reports, ICC insiders have neither confirmed nor denied the emergency meeting. Sources suggest that such an important meeting would require prior notification to the host nation, which PCB claims has not happened. PCB officials insist they are unaware of any such meeting, stating it would be unusual for a host country to be excluded from communication regarding a key event.
India’s reluctance to play in Pakistan has delayed the ICC’s announcement of the tournament schedule. The delay has led to mounting pressure from broadcasters, who are demanding clarity. Broadcasters have warned that the ICC could face legal action if the high-profile Pakistan-India match does not occur, as such a scenario would result in significant financial losses.
As the standoff between the two cricketing nations continues, the Champions Trophy hangs in the balance, with the ICC under pressure to resolve the issue swiftly. Both the Indian and Pakistani boards are unlikely to back down, leaving the cricketing world awaiting a final decision.