ICC likely to unveil CT 2025 schedule this week: report

The PCB has reiterated its stance that the tournament will be held entirely within Pakistan

The highly anticipated 2025 edition of the ICC Champions Trophy, set to be hosted in Pakistan, is expected to have its schedule announced in the coming days.

According to a report by India Today on Tuesday, November 19, sources close to the developments confirmed that discussions are still underway between the International Cricket Council (ICC), the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), and other participating members. The schedule is expected to be released within a couple of days.

"We are still in discussions with the host and participating members on the Champions Trophy schedule. It should be out soon, likely in a couple of days or so," the source revealed.

The PCB has reiterated its stance that the eight-team tournament will be held entirely within Pakistan. However, recent developments suggest that a "hybrid model" is being considered to accommodate logistical challenges.

According to the latest information, back-channel negotiations are ongoing to convince the PCB to adopt this model, primarily due to India's reluctance to travel to Pakistan for the tournament, which is scheduled for February and March next year.

Sources revealed that top cricket administrators are stressing the importance of India's participation in the prestigious event, noting the substantial fanbase and revenue the Indian team brings to international tournaments.

There have also been discussions about the financial impact if India pulls out of the event, with the PCB urged to reconsider its stance and work towards a solution that would allow India's participation.

"The PCB has also been made aware of the financial consequences if they withdraw from the event. Pakistan has been urged to refrain from making statements against the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and to start working towards a hybrid model to facilitate smooth planning for the eight-team tournament," the report added.

As part of the negotiations, Pakistan has been advised to avoid making public statements against the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and instead focus on finding a practical solution. It's expected that discussions will soon lead to a hybrid model, which may involve hosting some matches outside Pakistan.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, speaking to reporters in Pakistan on Monday, reaffirmed that all other teams qualified for the Champions Trophy are ready to travel to Pakistan. He also expressed optimism that India would eventually participate.

"Every other team that has qualified for the Champions Trophy is ready to come. No one has any concern," Naqvi said. "If India has any concerns, we will talk, and we will ensure that concerns are taken care of. I don't think there is any reason why India can't come to Pakistan. Hopefully, all the teams will come."

This will be the first ICC event held in Pakistan since the 1996 ODI World Cup.