The International Cricket Council (ICC) has postponed its crucial board meeting regarding the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy for 24 to 48 hours, following a brief discussion that lasted just 15 minutes. The meeting’s objective was to address the ongoing deadlock caused by India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan, coupled with Pakistan’s strong opposition to a hybrid model for hosting the tournament.
During the short session, the ICC decided that Pakistan and India, with the council’s assistance, would work together to find a solution that would be acceptable to both parties. The proposed solution would also involve consultations with other relevant cricket boards as potential facilitators. The decision is expected to be reached within the next 24 to 48 hours.
The 2025 Champions Trophy is scheduled to be held in Pakistan, but India’s refusal to play its matches there has created significant uncertainty regarding the event’s future. Pakistan has maintained its firm stance against a hybrid model, which would involve splitting the matches between two venues, and has warned that it would consider boycotting future events in India if the situation persists.
Both the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) are expected to consult their respective governments before making any final decisions on the matter. The ICC has emphasized that the goal is to resolve the issue amicably and has confirmed that further meetings will take place in the coming days.
BCCI vice-president Rajiv Shukla also confirmed ongoing discussions with the PCB, with the ICC playing a key role in facilitating these talks. He emphasized that the BCCI would follow its government’s directive regarding the issue.
Meanwhile, India’s foreign office spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, stated that the BCCI had raised concerns over security for the team’s travel to Pakistan. He reiterated that, as of now, it is unlikely the team would travel due to these security issues, which adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing discussions.
Despite this, the BCCI has yet to issue a formal public statement on the matter, leaving the situation in a state of uncertainty.
