The International Cricket Council (ICC) has once again postponed the decision regarding the 2025 Champions Trophy, sources confirmed. The second meeting of the ICC board, originally scheduled for Saturday, has been delayed, with reports indicating that the council may reconvene in the next two days.
This meeting was intended to address the location of the upcoming tournament, following Friday’s discussions where member countries deliberated on the issue. A major point of contention has arisen after India refused to travel to Pakistan for next year’s Champions Trophy, placing the ICC in a difficult position. Several alternatives were proposed, including the possibility of a hybrid tournament, replacing India with another team like Sri Lanka, or revoking Pakistan’s hosting rights.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has remained firm in its opposition to a hybrid model. Sources quoted PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, emphasizing that the board’s position on the hybrid option is “clear” and stating that the PCB insists on holding the Champions Trophy in Pakistan. Additionally, the PCB has made it clear that if India refuses to travel for the tournament, Pakistan will not participate in future events hosted by India.
This has led to a deadlock, forcing the ICC to postpone the decision. During a brief meeting on Friday, Naqvi reiterated Pakistan’s stance, further complicating negotiations. With the PCB’s firm rejection of the hybrid model, the remaining options are for India to reverse its decision, for another team to replace India, or for Pakistan to lose its hosting rights.
Regarding India’s participation, media reports suggest that Pakistan has offered to allow the Indian team to return to Chandigarh or New Delhi after each of their matches to address security concerns.
The ICC is under pressure to find a resolution that will allow Pakistan and India to compete in the Champions Trophy, with reports indicating that broadcasters may take legal action if the marquee match-up between the two rivals is excluded from the event.
