PCB demands BCCI for written proof if India skips Champions Trophy in Pakistan: report

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is pressing the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to provide written proof if the Indian government denies permission for the Indian cricket team to travel to Pakistan for next year's Champions Trophy due to security concerns. A PCB source has revealed that the board wants this matter resolved quickly since the tournament is scheduled for February-March.

While the upcoming ICC annual conference in Colombo on July 19 does not include a discussion on the 'Hybrid Model'—where India might play its games in the UAE—additional funds have been set aside by the ICC in case the tournament needs to be held in two countries, according to a media report.

"If the India government declines permission, it has to be in writing and it is mandatory on the BCCI to provide that letter to the ICC now," the PCB source working closely with organizing committee told PTI.

"It is a fact that the we are insistent that the BCCI must inform the ICC about its travel plans to Pakistan at least 5-6 months before the tournament and in writing," the top PCB source also stated.

The BCCI has always maintained that playing cricket in Pakistan is a decision made by the Indian government. During the 2023 ODI Asia Cup, India played all its games in Sri Lanka under a 'Hybrid Model.'

The PCB has already submitted its draft schedule to the ICC, which includes all of India's games, including a possible semi-final and final, being held in Lahore. The marquee India vs Pakistan match is scheduled for March 1. The tournament will begin in Karachi on February 19 and conclude with the final in Lahore on March 9, with a reserve day on March 10 in case of bad weather. Some matches will also be held in Rawalpindi.

According to BCCI sources, there is currently no chance of the Indian team traveling to Pakistan. The ICC has allocated additional budget for any emergency plans if matches need to be moved outside Pakistan.

"The ICC Management is recommending additional costs just in case it is necessary to play some matches outside Pakistan if such a situation arises later on," the source confirmed.