- ICC Board of Directors meeting to address issues of hosting the tournament.
- Pakistan insists on a fair solution, and rejects proposals for a venue for the hybrid meeting.
- India’s reluctance complicates tournament scheduling decisions.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) is set to take a crucial decision on Friday (today) on the fate of the 2025 Cricket Champions Trophy and whether Pakistan will retain hosting rights, sources said. Geographic News.
The outcome of the online board meeting will not only determine the venue of the tournament, but will also determine whether or not it will go ahead as scheduled.
The decision comes amid ongoing disputes between Pakistan and India. Pakistan has strongly opposed the hybrid model where matches against India are played at a neutral venue.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has communicated its firm stance to the ICC, with its president Mohsin Naqvi saying: “We will bear setbacks, but not at the cost of our dignity.”
The Program Coordination Board has reportedly finalized most of the arrangements for hosting the event and requested an acceptable solution before the ICC meeting.
However, India’s refusal to play in Pakistan still creates hurdles, leaving broadcasters concerned about potential financial losses.
Financial implications
According to sources, Pakistan will receive $6 million from hosting rights, excluding additional revenue from ticket sales and hospitality.
However, the PCB has to allocate $1.2-1.3 million to secure the tournament.
In comparison, India has a significant financial advantage, receiving a 38% share of the ICC’s annual revenue, which amounts to $90-95 million.
The scheduling of the Champions Trophy remains unresolved due to India’s reluctance to travel to Pakistan, delaying the completion of the tournament and disrupting broadcasters’ plans.
Today’s virtual ICC Board meeting, confirmed by an ICC spokesperson, aims to address these pressing concerns and clarify the situation.