After prolonged negotiations and the intervention of the International Cricket Council (ICC), the Asia Cup 2023 is finally scheduled to take place. However, there is still a deadlock regarding the hosting of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has declined to sign the hosting agreement with the ICC for the tournament due to unresolved financial concerns and the potential absence of an India-Pakistan match.
The PCB has insisted on financial guarantees from the ICC in the event that India refuses to send their team to Pakistan for the tournament. Pakistan is the official host for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has remained firm in its stance, stating that the team will not travel to Pakistan without government approval. Given the unlikelihood of the Indian government granting permission for the team’s visit to Pakistan, the ICC now faces a challenging situation.
ICC Chairman Greg Barclay and CEO Geoff Allardice visited Pakistan last month in an attempt to finalize the hosting agreement. However, the PCB has refused to sign the document without receiving the desired guarantees.
The PCB has sought legal advice and raised objections through a letter to the ICC, seeking resolution of the issues before proceeding with the signing of the hosting agreement. The ICC has not yet issued a written response to the matter. Nevertheless, officials from the ICC and PCB are engaged in discussions to address the financial implications.
It is worth noting that the PCB will receive financial compensation from the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) as a result of India’s refusal to travel. Pakistan will only host four matches against other Asian nations, while India’s matches will be held in Sri Lanka, with the final also scheduled to take place there.
The future of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 hosting agreement remains uncertain, pending written assurances or financial compensation from the ICC or BCCI. The parties involved are working towards finding a resolution that satisfies all stakeholders. Cricket fans eagerly await a positive outcome that ensures the smooth operation of these prestigious tournaments while upholding the spirit of cricketing camaraderie.
