PCB demands written proof of Indian government's stand from BCCI if Team India do not visit Pakistan for Champions Trophy

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly asked for proof from the BCCI in case the Indian board decides against sending Team India to Pakistan for next year's ICC Champions Trophy.

The bilateral relationship between BCCI and PCB is suspended at the moment due to political tension between the two nations. India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral series against each other for more than a decade now.

The last bilateral series between them took place way back in the 2012-13 season when Pakistan had visited India for a short limited-overs series. Since then, the arch-rivals have played against each other only in ICC tournaments and the Asia Cups.

As far as the resumption of the bilateral ties between the two cricket boards is concerned, the BCCI has constantly maintained that it has no say in the matter. Time and again, the BCCI has said that Team India will be able to visit Pakistan or play any bilateral series against them only if the Indian government permits. The board has the same stance for the Champions Trophy as well.

It has to be in writing: PCB

However, the PCB has now demanded written proof from the BCCI, stating that the Indian board would have to submit proof of the Indian government's denial of permission. According to a report in PTI, the PCB wants the matter to be sorted quickly since the tournament is scheduled to be held in February-March next year.

The report further stated that the ICC has not discussed the 'Hybrid Model' so far, but has earmarked additional funds in case the Champions Trophy becomes a two-country tournament. Last year, the Asia Cup was played in a hybrid model as Pakistan had the hosting rights.

"If the India government declines permission, it has to be in writing and it is mandatory on the BCCI to provide that letter to the ICC now," the PCB source working closely with organizing committee told PTI.

"It is a fact that the we are insistent that the BCCI must inform the ICC about its travel plans to Pakistan at least 5-6 months before the tournament and in writing," the top PCB source also stated.

Meanwhile, the PCB wants the entire competition to be held in Pakistan and have already submitted the draft schedule to the ICC. As per reports, the PCB has scheduled all of India's games in Lahore due to security and logistic reasons.