The International Cricket Council (ICC) has postponed its board meeting, initially set to discuss the 2025 Champions Trophy hosting arrangements. India has requested additional time to address the matter. Amid this postponement, Pakistan maintains a strong stance on hosting the event, prompting India to reconsider its position. Pakistan has declared that it will not participate in any ICC tournaments India hosts if India refuses to send its team to Pakistan for the event.
Ongoing discussions between Pakistan (PCB) and India (BCCI) cricket boards have not yielded a definitive resolution. Pakistan opposes the ICC’s proposed hybrid model, which suggests hosting some matches at neutral venues. Originally planned for November 29, the meeting was deferred following inconclusive preliminary talks, with the ICC requesting both boards to propose solutions within the next 24 to 48 hours.
PCB Chairman Najam Sethi firmly stated Pakistan’s intention to host the tournament. India’s reluctance to travel to Pakistan exacerbates the situation, casting doubt on the tournament’s future. While the ICC has considered potential compromises, Pakistan remains resolute, indicating that any concession to India could result in Pakistan boycotting future ICC events in India.
The final decision regarding the venue for the tournament hinges on the ongoing negotiations between the two countries’ cricket boards. Resolving the impasse may require an ICC member vote.
