Champions Trophy 2025 to be hosted by this country if Pakistan pulls out: report

The future of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy remains uncertain as tensions rise over venue disagreements between India and Pakistan. Since the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) informed the International Cricket Council (ICC) that it would not be traveling to Pakistan for the event, the fate of the tournament has been in limbo.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has maintained a firm stance against the proposal of a 'hybrid model,' where some matches—including those involving India—would be held at a neutral venue. PCB officials have made it clear that there will be no compromise on this matter and have formally written to the ICC, requesting a detailed explanation for India’s refusal to play in Pakistan.

Among the venues initially discussed as alternatives were Sri Lanka, Dubai, and South Africa. However, a report from PTI has confirmed that discussions surrounding South Africa as a neutral venue have reportedly ceased for now.

A recent video report by Sports Tak has revealed that within the BCCI's internal discussions, there is speculation that if Pakistan sticks to its position and withdraws from the Champions Trophy, the tournament may be shifted to India. 

The report further suggests that such a move could lead to significant financial consequences, particularly due to the lucrative India-Pakistan match, which is considered a marquee fixture in any cricket event. If Pakistan pulls out, the ICC may be forced to pay substantial compensation to broadcasters who rely on the high-profile India-Pakistan clash for viewership.

While this development is still in its early stages and no concrete decisions have been made, it adds another layer of uncertainty to the 2025 tournament, which was originally set to be held in Pakistan.

Meanwhile, Cricbuzz reported that a “key official” expressed frustration, stating that the ICC could have been more proactive in handling the situation, indicating that the governing body’s delayed response may have exacerbated the ongoing impasse.

The 2025 Champions Trophy was poised to be Pakistan's first ICC tournament in 29 years, with the 1996 Cricket World Cup being the last major event held in the country. However, due to growing uncertainty, it remains unclear whether Pakistan will be able to host the tournament. The Indian cricket team last visited Pakistan for the 2008 Asia Cup, while Pakistan recently participated in the 2023 ODI World Cup in India.

The 2025 Champions Trophy is currently scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9, with eight teams – Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, and South Africa – set to compete.