ICC Faces Growing Pressure Over Champions Trophy Deadlock as India’s Stance Stalls Progress
LAHORE: The International Cricket Council (ICC) remains unable to announce a new date for its Board meeting to resolve the ongoing deadlock over the Champions Trophy, following India’s refusal to play in Pakistan. In response, the ICC has called an internal meeting with its sponsors and stakeholders on Thursday to discuss the situation, according to informed sources.
The delay in finalizing the Champions Trophy schedule, set to take place in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9, has raised concerns among sponsors and broadcasters who are struggling to finalize their arrangements. The original cut-off date for the schedule announcement was November 20, but confusion persists as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has yet to approve the hybrid formula proposed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). This formula suggests that matches between India and Pakistan should be played at neutral venues for events hosted by either country.
The ICC has scheduled a meeting with its sponsors and broadcasters on Thursday to update them on the current situation regarding the Champions Trophy,” sources told Dawn. “The BCCI has not yet provided its position on how to resolve the issue, and since India is a major financial driver for cricket, the ICC cannot finalize the schedule without India’s approval.
The ICC is expected to seek feedback from sponsors and broadcasters on potential solutions if the BCCI continues to reject both the hybrid model and the idea of sending its team to Pakistan. The meeting may also discuss the possibility of asking stakeholders to wait for a definitive resolution or a new date as the situation unfolds.
The absence of India from the tournament would result in significant financial losses for the ICC, making it increasingly difficult for the governing body to move forward without India’s involvement. Sources also noted that India is set to host several major ICC events in the coming years, including the Women’s ODI World Cup in 2025, the T20 World Cup in 2026, and the 2029 Champions Trophy, as well as the 2031 ODI World Cup, jointly with Sri Lanka.
If the BCCI refuses to accept the PCB’s proposal, the only viable option for the ICC could be to postpone the Champions Trophy until a resolution is reached.
