ICC Champions Trophy 2025: India shock Pakistan with sudden U-turn after approving schedule in ICC meeting

The Champions Trophy 2025 has been making headlines in recent days after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) refused to send its team to Pakistan. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has remained silent on its stance for the upcoming 50-over tournament despite growing concerns.

Pakistan is set to host the marquee tournament in February- March 2025. However, tensions have risen after India refused to send its team, citing a lack of government approval. The International Cricket Council has not responded even three days after Pakistan formally requested clarity on the situation.

Pakistan Refuses to Host Champions Trophy 2025 in Hybrid Model

The Board of Control for Cricket in India's decision has cast doubt over the Champions Trophy. Notably, the Pakistan Cricket Board didn't agree to a hybrid model similar to previous instances. However, the PCB has firmly demanded that the upcoming tournament be hosted entirely in the country.

Three days ago, Pakistan approached the ICC for a written explanation of India's decision and its reasons for not participating in next year's tournament. The ICC's silence has sparked speculation that India's refusal might have been conveyed informally rather than through official documentation.

"Pakistan sent an official letter to the ICC three days ago, requesting written confirmation of India’s decision and reasoning," reported Cricket Pakistan.

India Accepted Schedule in ICC Meeting in October - Report

The ICC had shared a detailed security plan for the tournament with the BCCI in October, and no objections were raised. It was later approved at the ICC Chief Executives' Committee and Board meetings on October 21 in Dubai. Notably, India was among the member boards that approved the schedule.

However, the BCCI informed its decision not to participate just days before the Champions Trophy schedule announcement. With less than 100 days remaining, the uncertainty has caused frustration among fans and stakeholders with commercial interests tied to the next edition of the Champions Trophy.

The ICC has shared the draft schedule with board members and broadcasters, but it is yet to be announced. Meanwhile, Disney Star, the ICC’s host broadcaster, approved the event schedule in early October despite seeking $940 million in damages from Zee Entertainment over a contract dispute.

Pakistan Defeated Team India in the 2017 Champions Trophy Final

India has not played a cricket match in Pakistan since the 2008 Asia Cup, and the two nations have not faced each other in a bilateral series since 2012-13. They continue to meet in ICC events and Asia Cups. The BCCI has made it clear that they will not tour Pakistan, even for multination tournaments.

Pakistan will enter the 2025 Champions Trophy as defending champions, having defeated India by 180 runs in the 2017 final at The Oval. Fakhar Zaman helped Pakistan score 338 in their 50 overs. In response, Mohammad Amir and Junaid Khan dismissed India's top order to secure the victory.

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