The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has strongly opposed the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) decision to include Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK) in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 promotional tour. This move led the International Cricket Council (ICC) to temporarily halt the promotional event.
The BCCI raised concerns after PCB announced plans to display the trophy in disputed regions like Skardu, Murree, and Hunza without prior consultation with stakeholders. BCCI secretary Jay Shah conveyed India’s objections to the ICC, urging decisive action to prevent the trophy from touring contested territories.
ICC Faces Scheduling and Controversy Challenges
The ICC Champions Trophy, last held in 2017, is already in uncertainty due to strained relations between India and Pakistan. The BCCI previously informed the ICC that the Indian cricket team could not participate in matches held in Pakistan, prompting a proposal for a “Hybrid Model” where India would play its games in Dubai.
However, PCB has rejected the idea, leaving the tournament’s schedule unresolved. The latest controversy over the POK trophy tour further complicates matters, potentially delaying decisions on the event’s roadmap.
PCB’s Announcement Sparks Debate
PCB’s announcement on social media about the trophy tour highlighted plans to visit picturesque locations, including Skardu, Hunza, and Muzaffarabad, regions claimed by both India and Pakistan. The PCB’s tweet read, “Get ready, Pakistan! The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 trophy tour kicks off in Islamabad… visiting scenic destinations like Skardu, Murree, and Hunza from 16-24 November.”
However, an ICC board member revealed that the PCB might not have sought prior approval for these locations, raising questions about adherence to protocol. The ICC is expected to review the matter and ensure compliance with international norms to avoid further escalation.
This development highlights ongoing tensions between the cricketing bodies of India and Pakistan, with implications for the sport’s governance and the future of multinational tournaments.
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