The developments reflect PCB's proactive efforts to safeguard Pakistan's interests in international cricket
19 December, 2024
PHOTO: AFP
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) shared key updates during a Governing Board meeting held yesterday in Islamabad, chaired by Mohsin Naqvi. Attendees were briefed on the progress surrounding the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, with significant developments highlighted.
According to sources, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi revealed that agreements with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have been finalized, with only documentation pending. The Champions Trophy schedule is expected to be announced within the next 1-2 days.
The chairman disclosed that India had proposed compensating Pakistan financially if their team did not travel to Pakistan for the tournament. However, the PCB rejected this offer, emphasizing national pride over monetary gains. Instead, Pakistan presented an alternative model, ensuring that for the next three years, teams from both nations would not visit each other's countries for ICC events.
As part of this arrangement, the PCB has been awarded hosting rights for a women’s tournament in 2028. When concerns were raised about the lack of major tournaments in Pakistan over the next three years, ICC assured the PCB of hosting opportunities for future events in the country. This commitment is expected to offset potential losses caused by India’s absence from the Champions Trophy.
The board was also informed that ICC might limit its announcement to the Champions Trophy schedule for now, without confirming the broader three-year agreement. However, an official declaration regarding the extended arrangement remains a possibility.
It was further disclosed during the meeting that Pakistan conveyed a firm stance to the ICC, warning of drastic measures if its demands were not met. Details of these potential actions were not elaborated upon.
The developments reflect PCB's proactive efforts to safeguard Pakistan's interests in international cricket while ensuring the smooth organization of the Champions Trophy.
