LAHORE – The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 scheduled for next year faces uncertainty as India’s refusal to tour Pakistan has created complications.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had written to the ICC ten days ago seeking reasons for India’s decision but has received no response.
Typically, if a team withdraws, the ninth-ranked team replaces them, but the ICC fears the absence of India would diminish the tournament’s appeal and revenue, leaving the matter unresolved.
With mounting pressure, the issue may now be put to a vote among ICC board members.
The PCB has requested a written explanation from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to assess the reasons for their decision.
The sources said that BCCI has not followed standard protocols, prompting ICC officials to tread carefully in responding to the PCB’s inquiry.
Meanwhile, Pakistan continues preparations for hosting the event, with construction underway at major venues including Gaddafi Stadium, Rawalpindi, and Karachi’s National Stadium.
The PCB has ruled out a hybrid model for matches against India on neutral grounds.
Indian media claim that the ICC officials are attempting backchannel negotiations to persuade PCB to accept a hybrid model.
However, the Pakistani officials have categorically rejected this.
A schedule for the Champions Trophy 2025 is expected this week. If unresolved, the PCB may pursue legal action, as senior officials recently consulted lawyers in London.
Last year, India also refused to tour Pakistan for the Asia Cup, leading to a hybrid model that saw nine out of 13 matches played in Sri Lanka, a format deemed unsuccessful.
