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Champions Trophy 2025: International Cricket Council's (ICC) board meeting, which was convened to decide the fate of Champions Trophy 2025, has been postponed and will be re-convened again. While some are reporting that the meeting will take place again on November 30, some reports suggest that the board meeting will be re-convened in in the few days. Meanwhile, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) hasn't budged from their stance and are still adamant to host Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan.
ICC's board meeting on Champions Trophy 2025's future shelved
As of now, no definitive decision has been made regarding the Champions Trophy 2025. The apex cricket board is expected to re-convene in the coming days to discuss and finalise the future of the tournament, which was initially planned to be held in Pakistan from February to March 2025. ICC aims to reach a positive resolution and ensure the successful execution of this multi-nation event.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has already informed the ICC of its decision not to tour Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025. The BCCI has proposed a hybrid model for the tournament, where India would play their matches in the UAE.
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Broadcasting threat amidst uncertainty around Champions Trophy 2025
However, Pakistan have maintained its stance, insisting that the entire tournament be held in their country. A meeting was held today to resolve the issue, but no definitive outcome was reached. The tournament's schedule, which was supposed to be released 100 days prior to the first match, has not been announced yet, and broadcasters remain uncertain about the host nation. As a result, the tournament is already facing delays and might face legal threats from the broadcasters.
While there are reports of ICC offering financial incentives to Pakistan to consider a hybrid model, the PCB has remained steadfast in its position. They are determined to host all matches, including those involving India, within Pakistan. PCB has also initiated a significant upgrade of the venues selected for the tournament.
PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi, who has been in Dubai since Thursday to advocate for Pakistan's position, attended the meeting in person. BCCI secretary Jay Shah participated in the meeting online. It's worth noting that Shah is set to assume the role of ICC chairman on December 1.
The meeting was attended by representatives from all 12 ICC full member countries, three associate nations, an independent director, and the ICC chairman and CEO.
A potential voting process among the member boards could determine the final decision. The majority vote will be decisive, and the PCB will have to adapt accordingly. Reports suggest that the tournament is scheduled to take place between February 19th and March 9th, spanning 19 days.
In 2023, the PCB hosted the Asia Cup using a hybrid model due to India's refusal to tour Pakistan. India played all their matches, including the semifinal and final, in Colombo.
Team India won their last Champions Trophy title in 2013 under the leadership of MS Dhoni. In a rain-affected final against England, the match was reduced to a 20-over contest. India emerged victorious by a narrow margin of five runs in a low-scoring thriller. India also reached the finals of the Champions Trophy twice, in 2000 and 2017, but was unable to clinch the title on either occasion.
