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The reports states that both bodies, the BCCI and the PCB, are at odds and shall refrain from taking part in any tournaments, whether they be affiliated with the ACC or the ICC, till the 2027, when the ongoing media rights cycle ends.
Rohit Sharma and Babar Azam (AFP)
The uncertainty over the Champions Trophy 2025 looms as India has declined to travel to Pakistan citing security concerns. And it seems as if the tensions have reached a fever high, with both sides reportedly declining to partake in any matches to be hosted by the other.
This update, reported by the Times of India, follows the news of ICC planning to host a meeting, scheduled for 7 December, to decide the future of the 2025 Champions Trophy.
The reports states that both bodies, the BCCI and the PCB, are at odds and shall refrain from touring the other country till 2027, when the ongoing media rights cycle ends.
The formal announcement regarding the final state of affairs shall be released after the Pakistan Cricket Board, the designated host for the tournament, and the ICC deliberate over the issue in their scheduled meeting.
What Does The Update Mean?
The Champions Trophy is to be held in February-March next year. Pakistan, while withdrawing its boycott threat and agreeing to go hybrid in the previous ICC meet last week, had demanded a reciprocal arrangement for itself till 2031. However, the ICC has agreed to a hybrid model for all its events till 2027.
During this period, India will be hosting the women’s ODI World Cup in October this year and the 2026 men’s T20 World Cup jointly with Sri Lanka.
Given the hosting arrangement, Pakistan would not have been compelled to travel to India if they had insisted against it in 2026 even if a hybrid model was not in place.
What’s The Hybrid Model?
The hybrid model would ensure that the two teams in question — India and Pakistan — shall partake in matches where they face off against each other in a neutral venue, away from both of their countries.
In the case of the Champions Trophy 2025, it has been believed that UAE may be looked up to as a neutral venue for the sides to compete against each other.
History Between The Two Sides
Ever since the ICC awarded the 2025 Champions Trophy to Pakistan, there have been concerns over India’s participation in the marquee event given the diplomatic tensions between the two countries.
India have not toured Pakistan since the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, which killed more than 150 people. Their last bilateral engagement was back in 2012.
Their latest refusal to travel has been blamed on security concerns and the ICC has stated more than once that it does not expect any member board to go against government travel advisories.
What’s At Stake For Both Countries If They Don’t Comply?
Meanwhile, a note from the broadcaster – Star India – to the ICC has revealed the potential impact on the tournament if either India or Pakistan pulls out.
The note, according to TOI, highlighted that if India pulls out of the Champions Trophy, ICC members could lose 90% of the $750 million total media rights value. In contrast, if Pakistan opts out, the financial loss would be less than 10% of the total amount.
Jay Shah’s First Major Assignment As ICC Chief
All this makes for an interesting initial issue to tackle for the new ICC Chief Jay Shah, who assumed power officially on Thursday.
In a press release posted by the ICC, Shah said: “I was equally delighted to meet with the dedicated ICC team working tirelessly behind the scenes to propel cricket forward. Their passion and shared belief in the sport’s immense potential are truly inspiring, as is their enthusiasm for the exciting opportunities ahead.
“Today has been both productive and inspiring. While I am encouraged by what I have seen, I recognize that this is just the beginning. The hard work to elevate cricket to unprecedented heights starts now, and I am confident that together, we will deliver on this vision.”
