ICC Champions Trophy schedule delayed over India’s refusal to play in Pakistan

ICC surrenders to political over cricket once again.

Listen to article

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced a delay in finalising the schedule for the 2025 Champions Trophy, citing India’s refusal to participate in the event in Pakistan.

The decision to delay the schedule follows ongoing discussions between the ICC and member nations, with India's refusal tp play in Pakistan, Express News reported.

Originally, the Champions Trophy schedule was set to be announced on 11 November 2024, during a formal event. However, due to India’s stance, the ICC has indicated the need for further deliberations, pushing back the announcement.

With less than 100 days to go before the tournament, which is scheduled to take place from 19 February to 19 March 2025, ICC officials are still negotiating with the host nation, Pakistan, and other participating teams.

Although the event is fast approaching, no final confirmation on the schedule has been made.

Meanwhile, there has been no response from India regarding the hybrid model, which could have allowed them to participate remotely. Pakistan has made it clear that it is opposed to this model.

The delay follows reports that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has formally informed the ICC that it will not be sending its team to Pakistan.

PCB Chairman had earlier stated that if any official communication is received from the BCCI, it should be in writing, but no such correspondence has yet arrived.

The Champions Trophy will feature the world’s top eight cricket teams, including Pakistan, Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, New Zealand, South Africa, and one other team. These teams will be divided into two groups for the tournament.

Pakistan’s former cricketers have urged the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to adopt a firm approach in response to India’s refusal to participate in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, which is set to be held in Pakistan.

Former captain Rashid Latif suggested that Pakistan might consider boycotting future ICC events if India opts out of the tournament.

He emphasised that the 2025 Champions Trophy is an ICC event, and member nations, including broadcasters and sponsors, have signed agreements to participate in these events from 2024 to 2031.

Latif referenced the 1996 World Cup, when Australia and the West Indies opted out of playing in Sri Lanka due to security concerns, but the island nation still went on to host the event and win the title. He pointed out that the situation should not be treated differently now, especially with the clear scheduling and prior agreements.

He also warned that if PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi tries to accommodate India’s demands, including adjusting to a hybrid model, it would lead to significant disappointment.

The PCB is yet to respond officially to India’s position, but India’s decision has already caused delays in finalising the event’s schedule.