Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan's hosting fate to be decided at ICC conference in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Cricket is all set to host the International Cricket Council (ICC) Annual Conference from July 19 to July 22

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) is set to host the International Cricket Council (ICC) Annual Conference from July 19 to 22. This event marks a historic occasion as it will be the first time the prestigious conference is held in the Asian region.

The conference will bring together over 220 delegates from 108 ICC member countries, representing regions including Africa, the Americas, Asia, East Asia Pacific, and Europe. The ICC Annual Conference is the premier gathering for cricket administrators and stakeholders worldwide, providing a platform for discussions on the sport's strategic direction, governance, and development.

This year’s conference, themed “Capitalizing on the Olympic Opportunity,” will address critical topics such as ‘Diversity and Inclusion,’ ‘Environmental Sustainability in Sport,’ and ‘Cricket’s Triumphant Return at LA28.’

Shammi Silva, President of Sri Lanka Cricket, expressed his enthusiasm about hosting the event: "This is a significant occasion for Sri Lanka, and we wish to warmly welcome the delegates from around the world to our beautiful island. We intend to use this conference to contribute to the future of cricket and showcase the beauty and heritage of our country to the world."

Additionally, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to raise concerns regarding the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 being hosted in Pakistan.

India has shown reluctance to participate due to security reasons, prompting the ICC to consider alternative arrangements. Discussions at the conference in Colombo may include the potential need for government approval and the possibility of a UAE co-hosting model.

There are concerns that India might withdraw at the last minute without official explanations, leading the ICC to prepare contingency plans, including budgeting for alternative host countries alongside Pakistan.

The annual conference will feature a series of key meetings, workshops, and networking sessions. Critical decisions will be made to benefit the future of the game, ensuring that cricket continues to grow and thrive on the global stage.