Sat Nov 30 12:16:54 UTC 2024: ## ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Jeopardy Due to India’s Refusal to Travel to Pakistan

**Dubai, UAE** – The future of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to be hosted by Pakistan, hangs in the balance following India’s refusal to send its team to Pakistan due to security concerns. This decision, communicated by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to the International Cricket Council (ICC), has prompted the ICC to explore a “hybrid model” where some matches would be played in a neutral venue.

An emergency ICC board meeting on November 29th failed to reach a consensus. While the ICC proposed a hybrid model—with matches potentially split between Pakistan and a neutral venue like the UAE—the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) initially rejected this proposal. PCB chairman Mohsin Khan, who personally attended the meeting, requested a day to consult with the Pakistani government. The ICC issued an ultimatum: either accept the hybrid model or forfeit hosting rights, a decision that could cost Pakistan millions of dollars in revenue.

The BCCI, represented online by secretary Jay Shah (who will become ICC chairman on December 1st), maintains its stance, echoing the Indian Ministry of External Affairs’ statement that security concerns prevent the team from traveling to Pakistan. The Ministry spokesperson reiterated that the team’s participation in the tournament is unlikely.

A hybrid model, likely involving UAE for matches involving India, including a semi-final and final, is now being considered the only viable solution. Postponement or cancellation would cost the PCB a significant portion of its annual revenue, potentially jeopardizing its $6 million hosting fee and a substantial cut to its overall annual income. The ICC also faces potential complications with its broadcasting partner, Star, should the tournament be significantly altered.

The tournament is currently slated for February 19th to March 9th, 2025. India has not played cricket in Pakistan since the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. The Champions Trophy, last held in England in 2017 (won by Pakistan), is making its return to the ICC calendar.

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