The upcoming International Cricket Council (ICC) meetings in Colombo, Sri Lanka, from July 19-22, could see a heated battle off the field, with India likely to express its reservations about touring Pakistan for the Champions Trophy next February.
India’s participation in Champions Trophy 2025
According to sources, India’s cricket board (BCCI) secretary, Jay Shah, is traveling to Colombo for the meetings, which culminate in the Annual General Meeting (AGM) on July 22.
While the official agenda doesn’t mention the contentious issue, it’s expected to be raised by both the BCCI and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) under “any other business.”
The Champions Trophy, scheduled for February 19 to March 9, has Pakistan proposing India play all their league matches in Lahore. However, with India unlikely to receive government clearance for the tour, the ICC may be forced to consider alternative arrangements.
Hybrid model on horizon?
One potential solution is a “hybrid model” where India plays their matches in a neutral venue like UAE or Sri Lanka. However, this is likely to be met with strong opposition from the PCB.
PCB response and Women’s Asia Cup
The PCB’s response to India’s potential refusal remains to be seen, but it’s sure to add another layer of tension to the situation. Interestingly, BCCI secretary Shah might even attend the India vs Pakistan Women’s Asia Cup match happening in Dambulla on Friday, adding another dimension to this complex cricketing rivalry.
The ICC meetings in Colombo promise to be a battleground for cricketing diplomacy, with the fate of the Champions Trophy and the India-Pakistan cricketing rivalry hanging in the balance.
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