In a reversal of their earlier stance, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly agreed to adjust the schedule for the 2025 Champions Trophy. The PCB has conceded to India‘s request for their matches to be played in the UAE, resulting in a hybrid model for the tournament.
This decision follows the Indian government’s refusal to permit Rohit Sharma and the team to travel to Pakistan due to security and political concerns. The 2023 Asia Cup was the last tournament held in Pakistan under a hybrid model, with India’s matches taking place in Sri Lanka.
A PCB source informed PTI, “The PCB believes that even if the Indian government denies approval for the tour to Pakistan, the schedule can be adjusted, with India likely playing its matches in Dubai or Sharjah.”
The BCCI has not yet made a final decision. By the time a decision is reached, Jay Shah is expected to be chairing the ICC. A PCB source told PTI that the board is already in talks with the ICC to announce the schedule by next week. “The PCB has reviewed the tentative schedule sent by the ICC months ago and wants it to be officially announced on November 11,” the source added.
“It has told the ICC that since a back-up plan is already in place with a revised budget there is no sense in delaying releasing a tentative schedule of matches.”
PCB Appeals to ICC
The PCB has also urged the ICC to pressure the BCCI into confirming their participation in the Champions Trophy in Pakistan. “The PCB wants the BCCI to provide a written statement regarding whether they receive approval from their government to send their team to Pakistan,” the source said.
The Champions Trophy is scheduled to start on February 19, 2025, with Pakistan playing New Zealand in the opening match in Karachi. Meanwhile, all of India’s matches will be held in Lahore due to security and logistical concerns.
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