BCCI 2 – PCB 0, as the ICC has once again adopted the hybrid model for the Champions Trophy 2025 with ICC releasing the schedule of the tournament. While Pakistan had initially wanted to host the entire tournament, India refused to travel to their rival country due to ongoing political tensions. With both parties holding firm on their stances, the ICC had to step in to determine the tournament’s format. The Champions Trophy will return after seven years, with the last edition held in 2017, which saw Pakistan emerge as the champions.
Timeline of ICC CT 2025 fiasco
It all began when Pakistan was announced as the host of the Champions Trophy. Everyone, including the ICC, knew that India would never agree to travel to Pakistan. A similar situation had already unfolded during the Asia Cup 2023, as seen by the ACC.
Despite numerous meetings and conditions proposed by the PCB, the BCCI maintained a single, unwavering stance: India would neither travel to Pakistan nor participate in the tournament if required to do so.
ICC’s three option to PCB
The ICC put three potential solutions to ensure the smooth execution of the Champions Trophy. The first is a hybrid model, which Pakistan has strongly opposed. The second option involves relocating the tournament to a neutral country while allowing PCB to maintain its hosting rights. The third and least probable option is hosting the entire event in Pakistan without India’s participation.
Pakistan threatened
Pakistan issued several threats in response to India’s refusal to travel for the Champions Trophy 2025. These included taking legal action against India, withdrawing from the tournament if a hybrid model was implemented, boycotting future ICC events involving India, and submitting a formal letter to the ICC seeking an explanation for India’s decision.
India threatened to pull out
In this dispute, India also threatened to pull out of the tournament when the ICC tried to convince them to participate.
Pakistan’s demand of neutral venue in India’s hosting events too
The PCB had declared that they will withdraw their men’s and women’s teams from the tournaments, if the tournament will be hosted by India. They have also emphasized that neutral venues should be considered for those events as well.
India offer to host
To add insult to Pakistan’s predicament, India, in one report, also offered to host the ICC Champions Trophy—a move seemingly intended to undermine Pakistan.
Jay Shah becomes ICC Chairman
Jay Shah’s intention was to resolve the complex and prolonged issue, and after assuming the office of ICC Chairmanship, the matter was resolved with all of India’s demands being accepted, leaving Pakistan empty-handed. Jay Shah’s influence played a significant role in the decision, which ultimately favored India.
