The ongoing saga about hosting the Champions Trophy has taken another twist. A new proposal is being discussed to resolve the deadlock over the Indian team’s refusal to play in Pakistan for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy.
As per the plan, India would play one of its three group-stage matches of the Champions Trophy in Pakistan, at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. After the game, the team would return to either India or the UAE, depending on their progression. If India advances to the semi-finals, those matches would take place in the UAE; however, should they qualify for the final, they would need to return to Lahore for the decider.
To tackle the financial impact of India’s preference to play its matches in the UAE, Pakistan would request a larger share of the tournament’s revenue. This plan, though complex, could strike a balance by meeting the needs of both boards and keeping the Champions Trophy on schedule.
Broadcasters are growing impatient with the uncertainty surrounding the venue for India’s matches. With the Champions Trophy approaching, they are pressuring the International Cricket Council (ICC) to finalize the schedule and may resort to legal action if a resolution isn’t found soon.
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 trophy tour in Pakistan gets underway in Islamabad with 2017 winner @76Shadabkhan 🏆🤩🇵🇰 pic.twitter.com/r8vE0rpNCz
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) November 16, 2024
Earlier, South Africa was seen as a potential alternative host for the tournament. However, Cricket South Africa (CSA) has stated that they cannot host the Champions Trophy in February, as the SA20 will conclude just a week prior, leaving the grounds unprepared for an ICC event.
According to the proposed schedule, Pakistan is set to compete in Group A with India, Bangladesh, and New Zealand, while Group B features England, South Africa, Australia, and Afghanistan. The BCCI is awaiting approval from the Indian government before committing to playing matches in Pakistan.
The Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9, with games scheduled in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Karachi. To prioritize player safety, the PCB has decided to host all of India’s matches in Lahore. This arrangement simplifies travel thanks to Lahore’s proximity to the border, facilitating attendance for Indian fans. India’s games are set for February 20 against Bangladesh, February 23 against Pakistan, and March 2 against New Zealand.
Mohd Faisal Hakak is a sports author from Kashmir. He likes to keep tabs on the sporting world with a keen interest in football, motorsports, NBA, and other marquee sports. He is a science graduate from Islamia College Srinagar.
