Thu Nov 14 10:00:18 UTC 2024: ## Champions Trophy 2025 in Jeopardy as India Refuses to Tour Pakistan
**LAHORE, PAKISTAN** – The future of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 hangs in the balance as India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan throws the tournament into uncertainty. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has informed the International Cricket Council (ICC) that it cannot send a team to Pakistan due to a lack of clearance from the Indian government.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the designated host, has steadfastly refused to consider a hybrid model where India plays its matches at a neutral venue. The PCB has sent a letter to the ICC demanding a written confirmation of both the ICC’s and BCCI’s stances on the issue.
India and Pakistan last played a bilateral series in 2012-13, with subsequent matches only occurring in ICC and Asian Cricket Council events. Last year’s Asia Cup saw a hybrid model with India’s matches played in Sri Lanka.
The PCB maintains that security is not an issue in Pakistan, citing the successful hosting of England and New Zealand tours. They have assured the ICC of the same security measures for the Champions Trophy.
However, the ICC has yet to respond to the PCB’s demands and is currently discussing the tournament schedule with participating teams. The PCB, according to sources, is unwilling to host the tournament outside of Pakistan, even in the United Arab Emirates.
The launch event for the Champions Trophy, originally scheduled for Lahore, has been put on hold. This follows the ICC’s initial plans to hold the event as per the ICC Chief Executive Committee and ICC Board’s meeting in Dubai on October 21st.
If the PCB maintains its stance and the tournament is affected, the ICC could impose sanctions, potentially including a cut in funding. The PCB could face a loss of USD 65 million in host fees if the tournament is moved or postponed, a significant blow considering they recently upgraded three venues – Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Lahore – specifically for the Champions Trophy.
First Piper 