The International Cricket Council (ICC) is set to hold a virtual meeting on Friday, November 29, to discuss the scheduling of the Champions Trophy (CT) 2025. However, ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan have cast a shadow over the tournament, as Pakistan continues to reject the proposed hybrid hosting model. India, on the other hand, has made it clear that it will not play in Pakistan, leaving the event’s future uncertain.

Concerns Over Tournament Viability
A source close to the matter emphasized the need for a collaborative approach. "It's not good for the tournament to have it without India and Pakistan," they said. ICC members are working to convince the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) of the financial and viewership impact of excluding a marquee India-Pakistan clash, which could significantly diminish the tournament’s appeal and revenue potential.

Financial and Broadcasting Pressures
The host broadcaster, Jio Star, has raised concerns about the delay in finalizing the tournament’s schedule. Per their agreement with the ICC, the schedule should have been provided at least 90 days in advance, a deadline that has already passed. The broadcaster is particularly keen on ensuring an India-Pakistan group-stage match, as it is critical for attracting viewership and boosting revenues.

One possible solution being discussed is placing India and Pakistan in separate groups to avoid India traveling to Pakistan. However, this arrangement could face resistance from television rights holders, who view an India-Pakistan clash as a cornerstone of the tournament’s success. Security concerns could also necessitate moving knockout matches out of Pakistan if India qualifies.

Political Instability in Pakistan
Adding to the challenges is the ongoing political unrest in Pakistan. Protests in Islamabad, led by former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s party, recently disrupted the Sri Lanka A team’s tour, leading to its early conclusion. PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as Pakistan’s federal interior minister, deployed the army to manage the unrest. Despite these hurdles, Naqvi expressed optimism about positive outcomes from the ICC meeting.

Proposed Hybrid Model
The ICC is reportedly pushing for a hybrid hosting model, where league matches would be played in the UAE, with knockouts in Pakistan. However, if India advances to the knockout stage, these matches might also require relocation due to India’s security concerns.

Potential Consequences for PCB
Should the PCB refuse to participate if a neutral venue is chosen, it could face significant repercussions. Pakistan’s cricketing body is already grappling with financial challenges, and a boycott could worsen its situation. Additionally, with India hosting major events such as the Asia Cup 2025 and ICC World Cups in 2025 and 2026, the PCB's stance could affect its participation in future tournaments.

ICC Champions Trophy 2025: PCB Alleges BCCI is Influencing Other Cricket Boards to Oppose Event