Pakistan on track to host Champions Trophy 2025 despite challenges

Sources indicate that, given the current circumstances, the Indian government is unlikely to allow BCCI to send its team to Pakistan

PHOTO: AFP

The hosting rights of Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled for February-March, have been awarded to Pakistan by the International Cricket Council (ICC), although formal hosting agreement is yet to be finalized.

Discussions on this matter transpired during recent ICC meetings in India. PCB authorities express optimism about the imminent signing of the agreement. Pakistan's stance is clear: if any country cites security concerns to refrain from sending a team, the ICC should refrain from unilateral decisions. Instead, a comprehensive assessment, in consultation with an independent security agency, should be conducted.

All teams, except India, have recently played in Pakistan without security issues. Consequently, the proposal is for all matches to take place in Pakistan, unless a genuine security concern, validated by an independent security agency, arises.

Sources indicate that, given the current circumstances, the Indian government is unlikely to allow BCCI to send Indian team to Pakistan. The PCB acknowledges the political nature of this issue, anticipating resolution at the government level. In case India opts not to send its team, alternative solutions such as relocating India's matches to neutral venues and ensuring complete compensation for financial losses through ICC consultation are being explored. The previous PCB management committee had also raised objections based on ICC documents, seeking legal advice. Although ICC Chairman Greg Barclay and CEO Geoff Allardice visited Pakistan in May, a resolution to this matter was not reached. The current administration seeks assurance, with contracts potentially being signed next month pending the resolution of financial and other matters.

Notably, PCB successfully organized the 2023 Asia Cup in Sri Lanka under the hybrid model, with only four matches held in the country. If the Indian team opts out, a similar approach might be adopted for the Champions Trophy, albeit with a significant increase in expenses.