The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has hit a major roadblock after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) dismissed the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) suggestion of using neutral venues for ICC tournaments hosted by India. The PCB’s demand came as part of a proposed hybrid model following India’s refusal to play Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan.
However, the BCCI maintained that India is a secure venue with no legitimate safety concerns, making such an arrangement unnecessary. This firm stance has led to a renewed standoff between the two cricketing boards and created uncertainty around the tournament’s future.
India’s Strong Stance on Future ICC Events
India is set to host four significant ICC events in the coming years, including the 2026 T20 World Cup, the Women’s ODI World Cup in 2025, the Champions Trophy in 2029, and the 2031 ODI World Cup. Responding to Pakistan’s demand for neutral venues, the BCCI made it clear that such an arrangement would not be entertained.
Their argument is rooted in India’s strong security framework, which the BCCI believes eliminates the need for alternative venues. This position has reportedly been communicated to the ICC, creating an impasse between the boards. The PCB, meanwhile, reversed its stance on the hybrid model after the ICC hinted at relocating the Champions Trophy to another location under a fusion formula.
Emergency ICC Meeting to Resolve Deadlock
In an effort to resolve the escalating dispute, the ICC has scheduled an emergency board meeting on December 5. The primary agenda is to address the hybrid model and the ongoing deadlock surrounding the Champions Trophy 2025. Reports indicate that ICC Chairman-elect Jay Shah may preside over the meeting, with the possibility of further discussions regarding India and Pakistan’s differing stances.
Although a virtual meeting was reportedly called by Shah, it remains unclear if the India-Pakistan issue will dominate the proceedings. As all parties aim to reach a resolution, the situation continues to evolve, leaving the fate of the eight-nation tournament uncertain.
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