ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Navigating Political Tensions and Tournament Uncertainty
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is just months away, but the tournament’s schedule is still not confirmed. Sources told IANS that the ICC is likely to finalise and announce the fixtures this week after going discussions with the Pakistan Cricket Board to address India's concerns.
One of the eight teams, India, has declined to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, pointing to government restrictions as the reason. The BCCI in has informed the ICC of its decision, prompting the PCB to seek clarification regarding India’s position on the matter.
The PCB is determined to host the entire tournament in Pakistan and may take the issue to the Court of Arbitration for Sport if no agreement is found. They are willing to accept compromises like those made during the 2023 Asia Cup and ODI World Cup.
The PCB accepted a hybrid model for the 2023 Asia Cup, where India’s matches were played in Sri Lanka. Despite government concerns, Pakistan also participated in the 2023 ODI World Cup in India. These events show the political and logistical challenges that could arise again for the upcoming tournament.
To generate excitement for the Champions Trophy 2025, the ICC launched the Trophy Tour in Islamabad, Pakistan’s capital. The iconic trophy was displayed at landmarks like Daman-e-Koh, Faisal Mosque, and the Pakistan Monument. Cricket legend Shoaib Akhtar joined the event, accompanying the trophy to various stops in the city.
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