BCCI informs ICC that India won't travel to Pakistan
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has told the International Cricket Council (ICC) that the Indian cricket team won't be playing in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, which is set to be held in Pakistan. The decision was taken after the Indian government advised against sending the team to Pakistan. This development requires a contingency plan from both ICC and PCB, perhaps a hybrid model where teams would alternate between Pakistan and another venue.
PCB's stance on hybrid model for Champions Trophy
However, the contingency plan for the Champions Trophy isn't so simple as Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi has ruled out the hybrid model. Nevertheless, ESPNcricinfo reports that several backup plans were prepared months ago in case such a model was required. Countries such as UAE and Sri Lanka have been shortlisted as potential secondary venues, given their close proximity to Pakistan.
BCCI's decision and PCB's response
While the ICC was informed of BCCI's decision earlier this week, it is still unclear if it was done orally or in writing. Naqvi has said that any objections from the BCCI would have to be communicated "in writing" before he could take it up with his government. He also stressed that the PCB is not "prepared to accept" the hybrid model for the Champions Trophy, citing past instances of Pakistan traveling to India for cricket events despite similar concerns.
Champions Trophy format and participating teams
The Champions Trophy will see eight teams- Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan and South Africa. The tournament will be divided into two groups of four teams each with semi-finals and a final. With the event starting in 100 days from Monday (November 11), the schedule and ticketing details are yet to be announced owing to these recent developments.
