- PCB is firm on its decision against accepting the hybrid model.
- Broadcasters refuse to accept the schedule without the Pakistan-India match.
- The ICC is trying to resolve the issue before Jay Shah takes over as chairman.
LAHORE: The uncertainty surrounding the 2025 International Cricket Council (ICC) Champions Trophy is expected to continue due to a possible delay in announcing the schedule for the mega event, sources said. Geographic News Wednesday.
The sources added that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has not supported its stand against the hybrid model of the tournament and hence the schedule for the event is unlikely to be announced in the next 24 hours.
The development comes at a time when the upcoming tournament – which is scheduled to be hosted by Pakistan in February-March next year – has witnessed a row between the PCB and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over the latter’s apparent refusal to visit Pakistan. .
The ICC has formally sought a written explanation from the BCCI over its refusal after the PCB asked the ICC to provide a copy of India’s written response regarding the decision not to attend the mega event.
The Indian board had previously verbally communicated its decision against his participation to the international cricket body.
Beyond the Pakistan Committee’s position, the refusal of broadcasters and commercial partners to accept a schedule that does not include a match between Pakistan and India – which attracts attention and thus generates valuable revenue – has exacerbated the problems faced by the ICC.
Moreover, they have also warned of legal action if the tournament does not include a contest between the two arch rivals.
Sources say that announcing the timetable will be possible within two days if stakeholders show flexibility.
They added that stakeholders support holding the event with mutual consent.
Meanwhile, the ICC is striving to find a solution before BCCI secretary Jay Shah takes over as ICC president on December 1.
It is worth noting that in recent years, the ICC has ensured that India plays Pakistan at least once in each of its international cricket events, ensuring a major chunk of revenue from the game.
The match between the two arch-rivals in the 2023 World Cup received unprecedented attention, with 173 million viewers watching on Indian television and 225 million digital viewers.
The ICC, which has secured $3.2 billion in broadcast rights for the 2024-2027 cycle and expects an additional $1 billion in other revenue, relies heavily on big events involving Pakistan and India.
It may be noted that India has not played an international match in Pakistan since 2008. Last year, BCCI refused to send a team to Pakistan for the Asia Cup, leading to a mixed format with later stages being played in Sri Lanka.
However, Pakistan visited India soon after for the 2023 ODI World Cup.