The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken an important step regarding the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025. They have asked the International Cricket Council (ICC) to convince the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to send its team to Pakistan. The Champions Trophy is scheduled for the first quarter of next year. During recent ICC meetings in Colombo, the tournament budget was approved. However, the schedule and format were not discussed. This information comes from a PCB source.
PCB’s Expression of Interest
An Indian media report has revealed that the PCB has already submitted all necessary details to the ICC. This was done through an expression of interest document. The report also mentioned that the PCB has handed over the task of finalizing and announcing the tournament schedule to the ICC. The ICC is now responsible for confirming the BCCI’s agreement to send the Indian team to Pakistan.
Supplementary Expenses for Possible Matches Outside Pakistan
The ICC has included supplementary expenses in the tournament budget. This is to prepare for scenarios where the Indian team might have to play outside Pakistan. This precaution is based on the BCCI’s history. The BCCI has often stated that the decision to play cricket in Pakistan is made by the Indian government. For instance, during the 2023 ODI Asia Cup, India played its games in Sri Lanka under a ‘Hybrid Model.’
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Proposed Schedule and Venues
According to the draft schedule, all of India’s matches are planned to take place in Lahore. This includes a potential semi-final and final. The highly anticipated match between India and Pakistan is set for March 1.
The ICC’s decision to include supplementary expenses highlights the complexity of organizing international cricket tournaments. It also shows the ICC’s efforts to ensure that the Champions Trophy runs smoothly despite potential political challenges.
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