Sun Dec 01 03:44:11 UTC 2024: **ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Venue Decision Delayed Amidst India-Pakistan Tensions**

LAHORE/DUBAI – A crucial ICC Board meeting to decide the venue for the 2025 Champions Trophy, scheduled for February 19th to March 9th, ended inconclusively on Friday after a brief 20-minute session. The meeting, initially scheduled to finalize the tournament’s location, was postponed until Saturday. The primary point of contention revolves around India’s reluctance to tour Pakistan due to security concerns, prompting the consideration of a “hybrid model” – where some matches, potentially including those involving India and the knockout stages, would be held in a neutral venue, likely the UAE.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has strongly opposed the hybrid model, insisting that the tournament be held entirely in Pakistan, as per their awarded hosting rights. They have even threatened to withdraw from the tournament if a hybrid model is implemented. The PCB has also reportedly requested assurances from the ICC that Lahore would host the final, should India fail to qualify. Furthermore, the PCB is reportedly seeking the implementation of a hybrid model for all future ICC tournaments in India, including the 2026 T20 World Cup.

BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla stated that India’s participation hinges on the Indian government’s approval and that player safety is paramount. Meanwhile, various reports suggest that the ICC has given Pakistan an ultimatum: accept the hybrid model or risk losing the tournament entirely, as broadcasters are unlikely to support an event lacking both India and Pakistan.

The future of the 2025 Champions Trophy remains uncertain, with the Saturday meeting expected to finalize the location and possibly include a revised schedule. The outcome will significantly impact the participation of both Pakistan and India, and potentially reshape the future of ICC tournament hosting arrangements.

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