The BCCI and PCB are preparing for a confrontation during the ICC meetings from July 19 to 22 in Colombo, Sri Lanka. It’s common for India and Pakistan to clash in ICC board meetings, especially when an upcoming ICC event is scheduled in Pakistan.
This time, discussions will focus heavily on next year’s Champions Trophy, ensuring a tense atmosphere in the boardroom. The outcome of these talks will be crucial for the event’s planning and execution.
What is the BCCI and PCB clash about
The Pakistan Cricket Board is entrusted with the task of hosting Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan. The championship is coming back into play 9 years later. The matches will be played from February 19 to March 9.
Due to geopolitical tensions between the two countries, it’s still unsure whether the Indian government would allow their team to travel to Pakistan. Additionally, there are also security concerns related to team India, considering the threats these players get.
The Pakistan cricket team was hosted in India for the 2023 ODI World Cup, and was relieved with warmth in the country. Keeping that as an example, the PCB wants team India to play in Pakistan.
However, in case the Indian government rejects their plea, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah is suggesting a hybrid model of play.
What the BCCI and PCB officials have said about the matter
According to BCCI sources, there is currently no possibility of travelling to Pakistan. The ICC, aware of this, has allocated an additional budget for any contingency plans.
“The ICC Management is recommending additional costs just in case it is necessary to play some matches outside Pakistan if such a situation arises later on,” a source was quoted as saying by PTI.
If India do no travel to Pakistan then BCCI might propose to host the tournament in a ‘hybrid model’ where India play their matches in the UAE.
“If the Indian 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 the organizing committee told PTI.
“It is a fact that 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.
India will play all their league matches in Lahore, facing Bangladesh on February 20, New Zealand on February 23, and Pakistan on March 1.
The tournament begins in Karachi on February 19 and ends with the final in Lahore on March 9, with a reserve day on March 10 in case of bad weather. Some matches will also take place in Rawalpindi.
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