Will Pakistan lose Champions Trophy 2025 hosting? SLC set to host ICC Annual Conference

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) is gearing up to host the International Cricket Council Annual Conference (ICC) from July 19th to 22nd, 2024. This marks the first time the prestigious event will be held in the Asian region.

The conference will see over 220 delegates from 108 ICC member countries converging in Sri Lanka, representing regions such as Africa, the Americas, Asia, East Asia Pacific, and Europe. The ICC Annual Conference is the pinnacle gathering for cricket administrators and stakeholders worldwide, providing a platform for discussions on the sport's strategic direction, governance, and development.

This year’s conference, themed “Capitalizing on the Olympic Opportunity,’ will discuss topics such as ‘Diversity and Inclusion,’ ‘environmental sustainability and the sport,’ and ‘Cricket’s triumphant return at LA28.

Shammi Silva, President of Sri Lanka Cricket, expressed his enthusiasm about hosting the event: "This is a significant occasion for Sri Lanka, and we wish to warmly welcome the delegates from around the world to our beautiful island. We intend to use this conference to contribute to the future of cricket and showcase the beauty and heritage of our country to the world."

BCCI may express concerns about the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 being hosted in Pakistan, with India hesitant to participate due to security reasons. The ICC is considering alternative plans due to India's reluctance, which may prompt discussions at their annual conference in Colombo. 

The Indian board will likely mention the need for government approval, potentially leading to talks about a UAE co-hosting model. Concerns arise over India's possible last-minute withdrawal without official explanations, prompting ICC to prepare contingency plans, including budgeting for alternative host countries alongside Pakistan.

The annual conference will also consist of a series of key meetings, workshops, and networking sessions. Key decisions will be made to benefit the future of the game, ensuring that cricket continues to grow and thrive on the global stage.