Sources indicate South Africa and UAE could host the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025 if Pakistan opts out. The PCB is adamant about India’s participation in Pakistan amidst security concerns, which may lead to contractual issues for the ICC with broadcasters and sponsors. There is a possibility for the venue to change if disagreements persist between the cricket boards of the two nations.
According to sources, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are emerging as potential hosts for the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025, contingent on Pakistan possibly opting out of the tournament. Media reports from Pakistan indicate that the International Cricket Council (ICC) has reiterated to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) that the Indian team may not travel to Pakistan due to ongoing security concerns. This scenario could lead to significant contractual ramifications for the ICC, particularly with broadcasters and sponsors who expect competitive matchups featuring both nations. The PCB has expressed its desire for India to play in Pakistan, recalling that the Indian team visited for the 2023 ICC Men’s ODI World Cup. In contrast, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has proposed a hybrid model for the tournament, suggesting that India’s matches could be held in Dubai while the PCB opposes this arrangement. The strained diplomatic relations between India and Pakistan have not allowed for competitive cricket matches to take place in Pakistan since 2008, complicating the dynamics of organizing the Champions Trophy. India has consistently maintained a position against traveling to Pakistan due to security issues. Rajeev Shukla, the Vice-President of BCCI, previously stated that travel to Pakistan would only be feasible with explicit permission from the Indian Government. A hybrid model was employed during the previous Asia Cup, where India’s matches occurred in Sri Lanka, leaving the remainder to be hosted in Pakistan. Should both nations remain in disagreement, the ICC might be forced to consider alternative venues for this prestigious event.
The decision regarding the hosting of the ICC Champions Trophy is complicated by Pakistan’s uncertain participation stemming from security apprehensions related to a potential Indian visit. The longstanding tensions between India and Pakistan have resulted in India refraining from bilateral series in Pakistan since 2008. The International Cricket Council must navigate these complex dynamics as they plan for the event in light of agreements with broadcasting and sponsorship entities, who anticipate matches featuring both teams. Therefore, the question of venue and participation remains critical and contentious.
In summary, South Africa and the UAE are likely candidates to host the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025 if Pakistan withdraws. The PCB’s eagerness for India to participate in Pakistan contrasts sharply with the BCCI’s insistence on security guarantees. Given the intricacies surrounding travel regulations, broadcasting contracts, and historical rivalries, the ICC faces substantial challenges in confirming the tournament’s venue and format.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
