As the countdown begins for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has shown flexibility in scheduling to accommodate concerns surrounding India’s participation. With strained political ties and security challenges affecting India-Pakistan relations, the PCB has agreed to hold India’s matches in the UAE under a hybrid hosting model if the Indian government doesn’t grant permission for the team to play in Pakistan. This approach mirrors the 2023 Asia Cup arrangement, where a similar hybrid model was successfully implemented.
Shift in Schedule for India’s Matches
Originally, the PCB had planned for all of Team India’s matches to be played in Lahore for logistical and security reasons. But now, considering the complexities involved, the PCB is open to shifting India’s matches to UAE venues like Dubai and Sharjah. This flexibility signals a significant shift, as the PCB is keen on hosting the tournament without further delays or complications.
Pressure to Finalize Schedule
According to sources close to the matter, the PCB is urging the ICC to announce the final schedule by November 11. The board’s revised schedule, sent a few months back, aligns with their request to expedite the ICC’s release of the tournament details. This urgency stems from the need for planning and budgeting, as well as finalizing arrangements for venue upgrades and other logistical preparations. The PCB has already invested heavily in stadium renovations across Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi, earmarking around Rs 13 billion to ensure the facilities are top-notch for the tournament.
PCB’s Request for Confirmation from BCCI
The PCB has also requested the ICC to seek official confirmation from the BCCI on India’s participation. This involves obtaining written assurance from the BCCI that they have government clearance to send the team to Pakistan. Should the Indian government withhold permission, the PCB has proposed the UAE as an alternative for India’s fixtures to keep the tournament running smoothly.
Tentative Dates and Venue Arrangements
The Champions Trophy 2025 is slated to kick off on February 19, with Pakistan facing New Zealand in Karachi. A highly anticipated India-Pakistan match is currently set for March 1 in Lahore, while the final showdown is scheduled for March 9 at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. This tentative schedule keeps India’s matches in Lahore for now, but with the hybrid model in place, Dubai and Sharjah may become alternate venues if needed.
Hybrid Model to Ease Security Concerns
The hybrid model allows flexibility to meet both logistical needs and security concerns. For the Champions Trophy, this model is particularly strategic, as it eases concerns for teams from nations with strained relations. The arrangement also aligns with the ICC’s approach to hosting international events with minimal disruptions, as the organization cannot compel any board to override government policy regarding team travel.
What’s Next for the Tournament?
The ICC, currently headed by India’s Jay Shah, will have the final say on the scheduling and format. With both the PCB and BCCI awaiting official confirmation, all eyes are on the ICC’s November 11 announcement. This will determine the final arrangement and whether India’s matches will indeed take place in the UAE.
The PCB’s willingness to adopt a hybrid hosting model signals its commitment to hosting the Champions Trophy smoothly, accommodating international and regional concerns to ensure the tournament is a success.
