DUBAI – The ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to be hosted by Pakistan, has plunged into uncertainty due to India’s rigid stance.
India insisted on playing the tournament under a hybrid model, where its matches would be held in Dubai. However, Pakistan has rejected this proposal, refusing to accept the hybrid model.
Amid this uncertainty over hosting the Champions Trophy, a letter written by broadcaster Star India to the ICC a few months ago has surfaced. The letter highlights the financial losses that would occur if the Indian team pulls out of the tournament.
The letter to the ICC said, “The Indian team enjoys the highest popularity among fans and generates the most revenue for the ICC. The BCCI has refused to send the Indian team to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy, citing security concerns.”
The letter further mentions the likelihood of PCB rejecting India’s hybrid model proposal and dismissing the formula outright.
According to the letter, “The BCCI has objected to the PCB’s demands, and it is unlikely that the ICC will accept these demands. It is expected that the ICC will compensate the PCB with additional funds to hold India’s matches outside Pakistan.”
Star India’s letter highlights the indispensability of the Indian team in ICC tournaments.
“If the ICC has to choose between the BCCI and the PCB, it will choose the BCCI,”the letter states.
To substantiate this, the letter points out, “The total media rights value of the Champions Trophy is $750 million. If India pulls out, the ICC will face a 90% loss from this amount. In contrast, Pakistan’s absence would result in only a 10% loss,”.
The PCB has proposed a partnership formula to resolve the Champions Trophy dispute and achieve a lasting solution with the ICC and the BCCI.
According to the formula, both Pakistan and India would not play any events in each other’s countries.
This arrangement, effective from the Champions Trophy, would remain in place for three years. During this period, India would play its matches in Dubai, and Pakistan would also play all its matches in Dubai for the next three years.
