ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Likely To Be Shifted From Pakistan; UAE To Host Indian Matches

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) recently signed a formal agreement with the International Cricket Council (ICC) regarding the hosting rights for the Champions Trophy 2025. However, the PCB is considering hosting a few matches in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Despite reports suggesting a potential shift of the event from Pakistan due to security concerns, the signing ceremony took place in Dubai on Friday, December 15. PCB chairman Zaka Ashraf and ICC General Counsel Jonathan Hall were both present at the signing.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is highly unlikely to send the Indian team to Pakistan, and a decision is expected to be made in due course. It’s noteworthy that the Indian team did not visit Pakistan for the Asia Cup 2023, which was held in a hybrid model.

UAE Considered For Hosting Champions Trophy Matches – Report

Zaka Ashraf recently engaged in discussions with Khalid Al Zarooni, the Vice Chairman of the Emirates Cricket Board. Although the Champions Trophy wasn’t specifically addressed in their meeting, the UAE has demonstrated steadfast cooperation with Pakistan.

According to a report by Cricketpakistan.com, sources suggest that if India decides not to send its team, there is a possibility of relocating some Champions Trophy matches to the UAE. However, such a move would require the ICC to cover additional expenses, and adjustments to the tournament format might be necessary.

Pakistan insists that if a country cites security concerns for not sending a team, the ICC should avoid unilateral decisions and conduct a thorough evaluation with an independent security agency’s consultation. The ICC has agreed to comply with the PCB’s demand.

The sub-continent nation was announced as the host for the 2025 Champions Trophy on November 16, 2021. The prestigious tournament format will maintain two groups of four teams each, where the top two teams from each group advance to the semi-final stage.

PCB’s Press Release On Champions Trophy 2025

The PCB, in a press release, announced its proactive preparations for the Champions Trophy. The board has formally requested the government to provide foolproof security for visiting international teams, ensuring the successful hosting of the tournament.

“The PCB in its capacity has already intimated the government to provide foolproof security to visiting international teams for the Champions Trophy. Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar in a recent meeting with Chairman PCB Management Committee assured the security agencies’ cooperation in the successful hosting of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.”

Pakistan Will Enter Champions Trophy As Defending Champions

Pakistan is considered one of the favorites for the upcoming marquee tournament, having won the title in the 2017 season. Led by Sarfraz Ahmed, Pakistan defeated the Indian team in the summit clash to secure their first-ever Champions Trophy at The Oval in England.

The Men in Green had a slow start in the tournament but managed to defeat teams like Sri Lanka, South Africa, and England. Fakhar Zaman’s century played a crucial role in the final clash. Mohammad Amir and Hasan Ali each took three wickets to dismiss India for 158.

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