Sat Nov 30 09:46:35 UTC 2024: ## ICC May Relocate 2025 Champions Trophy Amid Venue Dispute
**Dubai, UAE** – The International Cricket Council (ICC) is facing a major dilemma regarding the venue for the 2025 Champions Trophy. A crucial board meeting, initially scheduled for Friday but postponed to Saturday, failed to reach a consensus on whether Pakistan will host the tournament. The dispute centers on India’s reluctance to tour Pakistan, citing security concerns.
Pakistan, eager to host its first major ICC event in nearly three decades, has strongly opposed a “hybrid model” proposed by the ICC. This model would see India’s matches, and potentially the knockout stages, played in a neutral venue, likely the UAE. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, has stated that this is unacceptable and that Pakistan may withdraw from the tournament if the hybrid model is imposed.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has indicated it will follow the Indian government’s directives, which strongly suggests India will not play in Pakistan. A BCCI vice-president, Rajeev Shukla, reiterated the organization’s commitment to player safety.
Sources within the ICC suggest that the governing body has given Pakistan an ultimatum: accept the hybrid model or face the tournament being moved entirely, potentially to the UAE, without Pakistan’s participation. The ICC’s concern stems from the potential loss of broadcasting revenue if India is absent.
Former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif added fuel to the fire, hinting on social media at potential repercussions for the ICC should they relocate the tournament.
The situation remains tense, with the Saturday meeting expected to be decisive. The outcome will significantly impact the tournament schedule, potentially excluding Pakistan entirely from the competition. The eight qualified teams include India, Pakistan, Australia, England, South Africa, New Zealand, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh.
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