What happened in BCCI, PCB and ICC meeting for Champions Trophy 2025
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule: Meeting Adjourned as Wait for Confirmation on Venues Continues
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has adjourned its crucial meeting aimed at finalizing the schedule for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The meeting, which took place on Friday, November 29, 2024, ended without a decision, leaving the cricketing world in suspense.
PCB Rejects Hybrid Model
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has remained firm in its stance, rejecting the proposed hybrid solution for hosting the tournament. The PCB finds such an arrangement unacceptable, citing security concerns and the need for a consistent venue. This has left the matter unresolved and requires further deliberation in the near future.
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Teams and Schedule
A total of 8 teams – India, Pakistan, Australia, England, South Africa, New Zealand, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh – have qualified for the 2025 edition of the ICC Champions Trophy, marking its return after an eight-year hiatus. The tournament is scheduled to be held from February 19 to March 9, 2025, in Pakistan.
Venue Uncertainty
The ongoing dispute over the future of the Champions Trophy has led to uncertainty regarding the venues. Reports suggest that the ICC may consider a hybrid model, with matches potentially being held in neutral venues like Dubai for India's matches. However, the PCB has strongly opposed this idea, insisting on hosting the entire tournament within Pakistan.
"Pakistan will not keep participating in events in India while Indian authorities keep refusing to send their teams to Pakistan. Such an imbalance is not acceptable," Mohsin Naqvi told media in Lahore on Wednesday.
"Our stance is well known. We will safeguard Pakistan's interests."
On the other hand, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has stayed firm on their decision not to send their team to Pakistan. The ICC is facing strong pressure from the involved parties as they must disclose the schedule 90 days before the kickoff but they are already 10 days late.
The last time the tournament was held in 2017, Pakistan emerged as champions with a dominant performance, defeating arch-rivals India in a one-sided final at The Oval. The PCB had plans to host India matches in Lahore due to its proximity to the Indian border, but this idea seems to be set aside.
What's Next?
The ICC Board members have agreed to reconvene soon to resolve the ongoing dispute and finalize the schedule. The cricketing world eagerly awaits the final decision, hoping for a resolution that will ensure a successful and exciting tournament.
Stay tuned for more updates on the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 schedule and venue confirmations.
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