The International Cricket Council (ICC) faces a major challenge in deciding the venue for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as Pakistan and India remain at odds.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is firm on hosting the entire tournament in Pakistan, but the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) opposes sending Team India to Pakistan due to political tensions.
An ICC board meeting was held virtually on Friday in Dubai to discuss the issue, but it ended after 15–20 minutes without a solution. The meeting will continue on Saturday, with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi expected to join in person to present Pakistan’s stance more strongly.
According to sources, the ICC is working to find a “logical solution” within the next 24 to 48 hours. The tournament is scheduled to take place in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9, 2025. Reports suggest that Pakistan had proposed hosting India’s matches in Lahore, given its proximity to the Indian border. However, the Indian government is not in favor of allowing the team to travel to Pakistan.
Pakistan’s Stance
The PCB has made it clear that it will not accept changes to the tournament’s location to accommodate India’s concerns. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi emphasized that decisions must be based on equality. “We’ve told the ICC clearly that Pakistan won’t compromise. It’s not acceptable for us to play in India if they won’t play in Pakistan,” Naqvi stated. He assured fans that the PCB is in constant communication with the ICC and will make decisions in Pakistan cricket’s best interest.
India’s Stance
On the other hand, the BCCI has deferred its decision to the Indian government. BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla reiterated that the board will follow government directives. “Discussions are ongoing, but our position is clear: we will act according to the government’s instructions,” Shukla said.
As the clock ticks, cricket fans await a resolution to this standoff that could define the fate of one of cricket’s most prestigious tournaments.
