ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Global body nears final decision, official announcement out on....

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has delayed finalizing the Champions Trophy 2025's progress, including the release of its schedule and related financial matters. However, a key announcement regarding the tournament is expected to be made this week to address the financial implications of India's stance.

The 2025 Champions Trophy is set to be hosted by Pakistan in February-March next year. However, the event is undergoing a scheduling fiasco due to the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) refusal to travel. The BCCI wants to play the Champions Trophy in a hybrid model, citing security concerns.

The PCB initially rejected the BCCI's hybrid model proposal but reportedly agreed under the condition that similar models apply to tournaments in India until 2031. The Men in Green are the defending champions, having won the 2017 final against India. An official schedule has yet to be announced by the ICC.

BCCI Rejected the Partnership Formula for Champions Trophy 2025

The Board of Control for Cricket in India rejected the partnership or "fusion" formula but later agreed to most conditions.

A report by CricketPakistan.com claims that behind-the-scenes negotiations are ongoing, with PCB officials Salman Naseer and Sumair Syed in Dubai for discussions with ICC representatives mediating between the PCB and BCCI.

"Sources reveal that despite the apparent silence over the past few days, behind-the-scenes negotiations are ongoing. Former PCB Chief Operating Officer Salman Naseer has been stationed in Dubai for several days, and the current COO, Sumair Syed, has also joined him. Discussions with ICC officials continued as recently as yesterday, with the global body mediating talks between the PCB and BCCI," Cricket Pakistan reported.

India's Refusal to Play in Pakistan Has Caused Delays

The financial challenges from India's refusal to play in Pakistan have caused delays in finalizing the Champions Trophy plans.

However, discussions have recently gained momentum, and a resolution may be reached within the week. The PCB aims to settle the matter promptly to proceed with essential preparations such as ticket sales and logistics for the tournament.

You Will Have to Keep Two Venues Ready - Aakash Chopra

In a video shared on his YouTube channel, Aakash Chopra said that the hybrid model is the only possible solution for the Champions Trophy. He mentioned that Pakistan might lose some tourism revenue, but the biggest issue arises if India reaches the final, which would be held in Dubai instead of Pakistan.

"The second model is the hybrid model. If some matches are held in Dubai, $4.50 million have already been allocated separately. Pakistan will lose a little bit in terms of tourism. However, if India reaches the final, that becomes a tricky one," he said.

Notably, PCB has also been warned about the serious consequences of pulling out of the tournament. Hence, it is unlikely that the Mohsin Naqvi-led board will take that route.

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