New Co-Host Named for ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Due to India’s Travel Concerns Regarding Pakistan
ICC Explores Alternative Host Amid India’s Reluctance for Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled from February 19 to March 9 in Pakistan, faces significant challenges following India’s expressed reluctance to participate on Pakistani soil.
The tournament, featuring top cricketing nations including host Pakistan, is now under scrutiny by the International Cricket Council (ICC) due to India’s concerns, which have been communicated through media channels rather than official channels.
This issue will be a key topic at the upcoming ICC annual conference in Colombo from July 19 to 22, where discussions may explore a hybrid model with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as a potential co-host to address security and logistical challenges.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is awaiting government approval, a customary procedure that typically does not result in a formal refusal but could lead to a last-minute withdrawal. Such a decision could disrupt the smooth execution of the tournament, prompting the ICC to consider contingency plans, including a budget for hosting matches outside Pakistan.
In the past, during the Asia Cup, India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan garnered support from other cricket boards such as Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, highlighting potential financial implications in decision-making processes.
One proposed compromise involves consolidating all matches in Karachi to facilitate travel between Dubai and Pakistan. However, major venues like Rawalpindi and Lahore remain options to ensure broad representation across Pakistan. The current schedule places Pakistan in Group A alongside Bangladesh and New Zealand.
Detailed logistics, including arrangements for chartered flights, are under careful consideration. Nevertheless, under the hybrid model, Pakistan might forfeit opportunities to host crucial matches like semi-finals or the final. The tournament is set to commence with the opening match at Karachi’s National Stadium, culminating in the final at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium.
Despite these challenges, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), led by chairman Mohsin Naqvi, strongly opposes any measures that diminish Pakistan’s role as the primary host. The PCB intends to advocate for this stance during the upcoming ICC meeting in Colombo, emphasizing the importance of maintaining Pakistan’s integral role in hosting the event.
