The International Cricket Council (ICC) has scheduled a critical board meeting for November 29 to resolve the impasse over the 2025 Champions Trophy. With India unwilling to play in Pakistan and Pakistan rejecting a hybrid model that would allow India’s matches to be held in a neutral venue, the board members may have to vote to find a way forward. The virtual meeting aims to reach a consensus, potentially leading to a final decision.
Uncertainty Over Dates and Schedule
Although the tournament window has been tentatively set between February 19 and March, the ICC has yet to confirm the exact dates or release a formal schedule. Traditionally, global tournament schedules are announced at least 100 days in advance. The delay stems from the Indian government’s refusal to permit Rohit Sharma's team to travel to Pakistan, a decision conveyed to the ICC two weeks ago.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), which was granted hosting rights for the Champions Trophy in 2021, subsequently raised several questions with the ICC regarding the reasons provided by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the timing of the communication. PCB officials claim they have not yet received a response.
PCB Stands Firm on Hosting Rights
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has remained resolute in his stance that the tournament should be held entirely in Pakistan, utilizing venues in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi. Last week, he expressed openness to discussions with the BCCI to resolve the deadlock. However, no official comment has been made by the PCB ahead of the meeting.
The ICC Board, which includes representatives from 12 Full Member nations, three Associate members, an independent director, and the ICC chairman and CEO, is expected to tackle the issue during this session. The meeting also marks the final one under outgoing ICC chairman Greg Barclay, who will be succeeded by Jay Shah, BCCI secretary and a central figure in this ongoing debate, on December 1.
Political Context Adds Complexity
As well as his role in cricket, Naqvi serves as Pakistan’s interior minister. Recently, his focus has been divided as he deals with political protests in Islamabad, led by PTI, the party of former Prime Minister and cricket legend Imran Khan.
With tensions between the two cricketing giants showing no signs of easing, the ICC faces the challenge of balancing sporting interests with political realities, making the November 29 meeting a pivotal moment for the tournament’s future.