ICC Champions Trophy 2025 to be played in T20 format?

Tensions rise over Champions Trophy hosting, with a possible shift to T20 format amid India-Pakistan dispute.


News Desk December 13, 2024
Deadlock remains on the ICC Champions Trophy schedule after India’s refusal to play in Pakistan. Photo: AFP

Listen to article

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) continue to remain at an impasse over the upcoming Champions Trophy.

With the event scheduled to take place in Pakistan in 2025, the Indian board's refusal to send its team to Pakistan due to security concerns has created significant tensions.

Pakistan, while firm in its stance, has made it clear that it will not step back from hosting the event. The PCB has suggested a hybrid model in which, if India does not participate, Pakistan too will not take part in any future ICC events in India.

Reports indicate that the Indian board is concerned about the potential revenue loss from matches between Pakistan and India, leading to increasing pressure on the ICC to relocate the tournament to another country.

Despite this, the PCB has not yet received an official response from either the BCCI or the ICC.

In a new development, Indian media outlets have reported that the Champions Trophy may shift from its traditional One-Day International (ODI) format to a T20 format.

This potential change comes as ODI cricket's popularity continues to wane in favor of T20s, which have seen a significant rise in viewership.

The matter remains unresolved, with no formal confirmation from the ICC or broadcasters regarding the format change.

The tournament, scheduled for February and March 2025, will be the first time Pakistan hosts the Champions Trophy since the event’s inception.

Both cricket boards are in talks to find a solution, with the possibility of a decision on the matter coming soon as preparations for the 2025 edition begin.

COMMENTS

Replying to X

Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.

For more information, please see our Comments FAQ